Beef stew with baked vegetables

Beef chuck with oven vegetables - a recipe that combines the flavor of meat with the sweetness of vegetables, prepared with love and patience to offer a comforting and delicious meal. This recipe will surely become one of your favorites, especially if you are a lover of rich and aromatic soups.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours and 50 minutes
Total time: 3 hours and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The history of beef chuck is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary tradition. This dish has been cooked for generations, being a symbol of family meals, bringing people together around a table full of warmth and love. Each region has adapted the recipe according to the available ingredients, but its essence remains the same: comfort and flavor.

Ingredients:

- 2 slices of beef chuck (about 500 g)
- 2 small carrots
- 1 small parsnip
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 small potatoes
- 1-2 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of tomatoes with peppers
- 200 ml white wine
- 100 ml water
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1-2 tablespoons flour
- Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the vegetables. Cut the onion into scales, the carrots and parsnip into rounds, and the bell pepper into suitable slices. The potatoes can be cut into cubes or rounds, depending on preference.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a heated pan, add the oil and wait a moment until it heats up. Add the prepared vegetables and sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice how the flavors combine and intensify.

3. Assembling the dish: Transfer the sautéed vegetables into a baking dish. Place the potato rounds on top to create a soft bed for the chuck.

4. Preparing the chuck: Wash the chuck pieces well and dry them with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix the flour with salt, pepper, and thyme. Coat each piece of chuck in the flour mixture, covering them evenly.

5. Browning the meat: Meanwhile, in the same pan, brown the chucks on both sides until golden. This step is essential to add a deep flavor to the final dish.

6. Final assembly: Place the browned chucks over the vegetables in the baking dish. Add the wine and water, then cover the dish with a piece of baking paper to retain moisture.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 30 minutes at high heat. Then, reduce the temperature to 180°C and let it bake for 2 hours.

8. Adding the final flavors: After two hours, add the finely chopped garlic cloves and the can of tomatoes with peppers. Cover again with the baking paper and let it bake for another 20 minutes.

9. Finishing the dish: Finally, remove the baking paper and leave the dish in the oven for another 20 minutes, so that a golden and appetizing crust forms on top.

10. Serving: The beef chuck with oven vegetables is served hot, alongside a seasonal pickle or a fresh salad. Personally, I like to accompany it with a cabbage salad or assorted pickles.

Practical tips:

- Seasoning: You can experiment with other herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to give the dish a different taste.
- Cooling: If you have leftovers, you can keep them in the fridge and reheat them the next day. The taste becomes even more intense as the flavors develop.
- Variations: Instead of white wine, you can use red wine or even beer for a different flavor. You can also add vegetables like celery, zucchini, or even mushrooms for a variety of textures.

Nutritional benefits:

Beef chuck is an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue development and repair. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. The olive oil used for sautéing provides healthy fats, and white wine, consumed in moderation, adds antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I replace beef chuck with another type of meat? Yes, you can use chicken or pork, but the cooking time will change.
- Is this recipe suitable for a festive meal? Absolutely! It is a dish that impresses with its appearance and complex flavors.
- What drinks pair best with this dish? I recommend a dry white wine or a pale beer. Also, a cold lemon tea can be a refreshing choice.

In conclusion, preparing beef chuck with oven vegetables is a culinary experience full of satisfaction. With each step, you will enjoy the flavors that blend and the comfort offered by a warm and nourishing meal. Savor this dish with your loved ones and enjoy the moments spent together!