Beef stew

Chop, chop, for today we will delve into the universe of a classic recipe, full of flavor and comfort: beef stew. This delicacy has been prepared for thousands of years, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It is a dish that reminds us of family meals, of evenings spent around the table, where the aroma of slow-cooked meat intertwines with that of spices. In this recipe, the beef is prepared with patience to achieve a succulent, flavorful dish that melts in your mouth. Let's see how we can bring this delight to our table!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 kg beef tenderloin, cut into pieces about 3 cm
- 4 tablespoons of butter for frying
- 3 medium onions, sliced
- 1 beef cube
- 330-500 ml dark beer (or light beer, but not too bitter)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (or regular mustard)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 bay leaves
- Thyme, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparing Beef Stew

1. Preparing the meat and onions: Start by cutting the beef tenderloin into pieces about 3-4 cm. Make sure to use a sharp knife to get even cuts, which will help the meat cook evenly. Slice the onion thinly so that it cooks faster and integrates easily into the dish.

2. Sautéing the onions: In a separate pan, add a tablespoon of butter and sauté the onion over medium heat until it softens and becomes translucent. This will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to your stew. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent burning!

3. Cooking the meat: In a heavy-bottomed pot, add the remaining butter and let it heat up. Once the butter has melted, add the pieces of meat. Sear them for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the water evaporates and the meat starts to develop a nice crust. This step is crucial for sealing in the meat's juices and giving it a delicious texture.

4. Adding the beer: After the meat is seared, add the beer to the pot. Let it simmer for a few minutes until almost evaporated. The beer's aroma will blend with that of the meat, providing a deep and complex flavor.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the sautéed onions, a cup of water, and the beef cube to the pot. These ingredients will help create a rich sauce. Then, spread a slice of bread with mustard and place it, buttered side down, into the pot. This will help thicken the sauce during cooking.

6. Seasoning and slow cooking: Add the sugar, thyme, bay leaves, and enough water to cover everything. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 1 hour and a half. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Finishing the dish: After 1 hour and a half, check if the pieces of meat are tender. If you can shred them with a fork, they are ready. If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and increase the heat, stirring for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

8. Serving: Beef stew is usually served with fried potatoes and mayonnaise, but you can also opt for mashed potatoes or sautéed vegetables. Add a little fresh parsley on top to provide a splash of color and freshness!

Notes and Tips

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of beer. A less bitter light beer will provide a different but equally delicious flavor. You can also add carrots or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and enrich the texture.
- Caring for the meat: Choose quality beef, preferably with a moderate fat content, to achieve a juicier stew.
- Nutritional benefits: Beef stew is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for a healthy diet.
- Calories: A serving of beef stew contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork, but the cooking time may change depending on the cut chosen.

2. What type of beer is best for stew?
Dark beer adds a deep and complex flavor, but a less bitter light beer can also work.

3. How can I thicken the sauce more quickly?
If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour mixed with a little cold water, stirring well to avoid lumps.

4. What side dishes pair best?
Fried potatoes are classic, but you can also opt for mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables, depending on your preferences.

Conclusion

Beef stew is more than just a dish; it is a celebration of flavors and aromas, a recipe that speaks of patience and love for cooking. Try making it with family or friends and let the pleasant memories it brings carry you away. Enjoy your meal!