Beef and mushroom stew with potatoes

Beef stew with mushrooms and potato garnish – a classic and comforting recipe that brings together the rich flavors of meat and mushrooms, accompanied by a delicious potato side dish. This stew is the perfect choice for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to prepare this savory dish!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients for the stew:
- 500 g beef (preferably chuck or neck)
- 500 g mushrooms (champignon or any preferred type)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (green, red, or yellow)
- 3 tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley

Ingredients for the potato garnish:
- 1 kg potatoes
- 250 g cheese (preferably sheep cheese or lightly salted cheese)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt to taste

Short history
Stews are a dish rooted in traditional cuisine, prepared since ancient times when people cooked to feed their families with simple yet nourishing ingredients. These dishes have evolved over time but have retained their essence, symbolizing comfort and conviviality.

Step-by-step preparation

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by finely chopping the onion and bell pepper. Make sure to clean and slice the mushrooms thinly. Cut the beef into cubes of about 2-3 cm for even cooking. The tomatoes can be diced for easier integration into the stew.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables
Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the bell pepper and continue sautéing for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Adding the mushrooms
Once the onion and bell pepper are sautéed, add the sliced mushrooms. Let them sauté for 5-7 minutes until they release their juices and become soft. You can add a pinch of salt to help the mushrooms release water faster.

Step 4: Cooking the meat
After the mushrooms are ready, add the beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well. Allow the meat to brown slightly on all sides for about 5-10 minutes. Then, gradually add water to avoid sticking. Cover with a lid and let simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Adding the tomatoes
Once the meat is nearly cooked, add the diced tomatoes. Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened. Finally, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley for added freshness.

Potato garnish

Step 6: Boiling the potatoes
In a separate pot, place the potatoes to boil with their skins. Make sure they are well washed. Boil for about 20-25 minutes until they are soft, but do not overcook them to avoid them falling apart. Test with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are ready.

Step 7: Preparing the potato balls
After boiling, remove the potatoes, let them cool slightly, then peel and mash them. Add the cheese, flour, and salt to taste. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Form small balls or patties from the potato mixture.

Step 8: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the potato balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden and crispy on the outside.

Serving
Serve the stew hot alongside the crispy potato garnish. You can add a fresh salad or pickles for a contrast of flavors. This combination will turn any meal into a true celebration of tastes.

Useful tips
- If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can add a crushed garlic clove during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- Instead of sheep cheese, you can use feta or mozzarella cheese, depending on your preferences.
- If you like spicy flavors, add a bit of paprika or chili pepper to the stew.

Nutritional benefits
This beef stew with mushrooms is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, while mushrooms add antioxidants and fiber. Potatoes, on the other hand, are a good source of carbohydrates and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, you can make just as tasty a version with pork, but the cooking time may vary.

- What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?
Champignon mushrooms are the most common, but you can also experiment with shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a different taste.

- How can I store leftovers?
You can keep the stew in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

So, enjoy a warm and comforting portion of beef stew with mushrooms and potato garnish! This recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a touch of warmth and familiarity to your meals. Bon appétit!