Beef stew

Beef stew - a delight cooked with love

Nothing compares to the enticing aroma and rich flavor of a carefully prepared beef stew. This classic recipe is perfect for chilly days when we want to warm our souls with a hearty dish. Beef stew is more than just a main course; it’s a true hug on a plate, bringing together tender meat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. Let’s begin this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

- 1.5 kg beef (ideally use chuck or shoulder for a tender texture)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, including leaves, chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 can of tomatoes (about 400g)
- 6 cups beef broth or water (you can use broth cubes for a more intense flavor)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 bay leaves
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and cut into larger cubes
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- (Optional) Cornstarch to thicken the sauce

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the beef into cubes of about 3-4 cm. In a large skillet, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the beef cubes, being careful not to overcrowd the pieces, or they will steam instead of browning. Sear the meat for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. This step is essential as it helps seal in the juices, making it more tender and juicy.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the crushed garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic's aroma is released.

3. Adding the ingredients: Before adding the meat back, place the canned tomatoes, beef broth or water, and bay leaves into the skillet. Stir well, then add the browned meat. Bring everything to a boil.

4. Simmering: Once the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat and cover the skillet. Let the stew simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. This time is critical for allowing the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

5. Adding the vegetables: After two hours, add the potato cubes and chopped carrots. Continue to simmer for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked but not overly soft. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Thickening the sauce: If you want a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the stew, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.

7. Serving: Once the stew is ready, take it off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. Serve the beef stew hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Drizzle with olive oil for an even better taste.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure to use quality beef; it will make a difference in the texture and flavor of the dish.
- If you don't have beef broth, water can be used successfully, but for a richer flavor, we recommend using broth cubes.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to vary the recipe.
- For a deeper flavor, some people prefer to add a splash of red wine during simmering.

Nutritional benefits:
Beef stew is rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for our health. The vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced and healthy diet. A serving of beef stew has, on average, about 400-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.
- How can I store the stew? It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavor often improves after being refrigerated, as the flavors meld together.
- Can the stew be frozen? Yes, beef stew can be frozen. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Serving suggestions:
Beef stew pairs perfectly with a dry red wine, which complements the rich flavors of the dish. Additionally, a simple green salad or coleslaw can provide a pleasant contrast to the stew.

Original variations:
To add a touch of creativity, you can try replacing the canned tomatoes with fresh tomatoes or adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. These will give your stew a personalized touch and an unmistakable flavor.

This beef stew is not just a dish; it’s a family story, full of memories and moments shared around the table. So take your time, enjoy the cooking process, and let the flavors inspire you. Bon appétit!