Beef stew with roasted peppers

Beef Stew with Roasted Peppers

Who doesn't love a delicious stew that combines the rich flavors of meat with the sweetness of vegetables? Beef stew with roasted peppers is a traditional dish that brings a touch of warmth to every meal. It is said that stew recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, with each family adding its own secrets to give it a unique taste. Get ready to discover how to transform simple ingredients into a comforting meal full of flavor!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef tenderloin
- 1 onion
- 3 green onions
- 3 carrots
- 400 g roasted peppers (preferably canned or fresh, roasted)
- 300 ml tomato juice
- 1 head of garlic
- Fresh dill and parsley (to taste)
- Olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by washing the beef tenderloin under cold running water. Pat it dry with a paper towel and cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This step is essential, as the meat cubes will cook more evenly.

2. Browning the meat:
In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the meat cubes and brown them on all sides for 5-7 minutes. This will help seal in the juices, giving the stew a better texture.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
While the meat is browning, peel and chop the onion (you can choose cubes or slices, depending on your preference), the carrots (round slices or sticks are ideal), and the green onions (finely chopped). These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to the stew, perfectly complementing the meat.

4. Adding the vegetables:
Once the meat is browned, add the onion and carrots to the pot. Stir well and let them sauté for 5-10 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step will intensify the flavors and add a layer of complexity.

5. Simmering:
Add enough water to cover the meat and vegetables (about 1-1.5 liters). Put the lid on the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours. It is important not to raise the temperature to allow the meat to become tender and juicy.

6. Preparing the peppers:
Meanwhile, prepare the roasted peppers. If using canned roasted peppers, make sure to drain them well. If using fresh peppers, roast them on a grill or in the oven, then peel off the skin and seeds. Cut them into strips.

7. Finishing the dish:
When the meat is almost cooked, add the roasted peppers and tomato juice to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously.

8. Add garlic and herbs:
Finally, crush the head of garlic and add it to the stew, along with the finely chopped dill and parsley. These herbs will bring a touch of freshness and liveliness to the dish. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Serving:
Beef stew with roasted peppers is delicious served alongside pickles, which will add a crunchy and tangy note. You can accompany this dish with warm polenta or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A personal suggestion is to add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil at the end for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This stew is not only tasty but also nutritious. Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, contributing to muscle and energy health. Fresh vegetables add fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals, while garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pork or chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can adapt the recipe according to your preferences. Cooking time may vary depending on the type of meat chosen.
- Is this stew suitable for freezing? Absolutely! You can freeze the stew in an airtight container to enjoy later.
- What are the best side dishes for this stew? Besides pickles, you can serve it with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes to complete the meals.

Possible variations:
If you want to add a spicy note, you can include hot peppers in the mix. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can completely change the flavor profile of the stew.

So, get ready to enjoy a beef stew with roasted peppers that will gather the family around the table. Put on your apron, play your favorite music in the background, and let’s cook it together! Enjoy your meal!