Beef and mushroom stew

Beef and mushroom stew is a comforting dish, full of flavors and textures that reminds us of lavish family meals. This classic recipe is easy to make and can quickly become everyone's favorite. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve a delicious stew, perfect for any occasion!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g beef (cubed)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 12 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 5 tablespoons oil (optional: olive oil or butter)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 300 g mushrooms (champignon or other preferred varieties)
- Optional: 1 bell pepper (sweet or spicy, as preferred)

Brief history
Beef and mushroom stew is a dish that has traveled through the kitchens of many cultures, each contributing its own flavors and ingredients. From tender meat to moist mushrooms, this dish perfectly combines proteins with vegetables, resulting in a nourishing meal ideal for cool days or to impress loved ones at a special gathering.

Preparing the stew

1. Heating the oil: Start by heating the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Olive oil adds a distinct flavor, while butter provides a special creaminess. Choose what you prefer!

2. Sautéing the onions: Add the chopped onion to the hot oil and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

3. Adding the meat: Add the cubed beef to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the meat is well browned on all sides. This step is essential to release the juices from the meat, which will enrich the stew.

4. Preparing the mushrooms: While the meat is browning, slice the mushrooms. If using large mushrooms, you can cut them into larger cubes for better texture.

5. Adding the mushrooms: Once the meat is browned, add the sliced mushrooms and half of the minced garlic. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mushrooms simmer in their juices. This takes about 10 minutes. Check occasionally, stirring gently to prevent sticking.

6. Seasoning: If you notice the dish becoming too dry, you can add a little water (about 100 ml). After the mushrooms have softened, add the tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to integrate all flavors.

7. Finishing the dish: Let the stew simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the remaining minced garlic and the fresh parsley. These ingredients will add a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.

8. Serving: Once the stew is ready, turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes. You can serve the beef and mushroom stew with a side of polenta, mashed potatoes, or a simple focaccia.

Practical tips
- Choosing the meat: Opt for beef with a higher fat content, such as neck or shoulder cuts. This will remain tender and juicy after cooking.
- Fresh or canned mushrooms: If you don't have fresh mushrooms on hand, you can use canned mushrooms, but make sure to drain them well before use.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. These ingredients will enrich the flavor and texture of the stew.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of this stew contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and type of meat used. It is a good source of protein due to the beef, and the mushrooms add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use pork instead of beef? Yes, the stew can also be made with pork, but the cooking time will vary.
- What else can I add to the stew? Many people add red wine or beer for a richer flavor.
- How can I preserve the stew? You can store the stew in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze it for later use.

Delicious pairings
This stew pairs perfectly with a fresh arugula salad or a serving of rice. Additionally, a glass of red wine will align perfectly with the rich flavors of this dish.

I hope this beef and mushroom stew recipe quickly becomes a favorite in your kitchen! Don't forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and personalize your recipe with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy your meal!