Meat with carrot sauce and a side of peas

Beef Recipe with Carrot Sauce and Pea Side Dish

A recipe that perfectly blends the simple flavors of basic ingredients, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. This beef with carrot sauce and pea side dish will not only satisfy your hunger but will also bring a touch of nostalgia from traditional cuisine. The dish is ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, where every bite will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

For the meat:
- 700 g beef (ideally, chuck or brisket)
- 1 red onion
- 400 g carrots
- 50 ml olive oil
- 250 ml red wine (preferably a Martini)
- 30 ml plum brandy
- 1 bay leaf
- a few fresh lovage leaves
- enough water
- salt to taste
- 1 small piece of chili pepper (optional, for a hint of spiciness)

For the pea side dish:
- 500 g fresh or frozen peas
- 1 small carrot
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 50 ml olive oil
- salt to taste
- enough water

Preparation of the recipe:

1. Preparing the meat: In a large pot, add the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped red onion until it becomes translucent. This step will add a special flavor to the meat.

2. Adding the meat: Place the piece of beef in the pot and let it brown gently on all sides to achieve a delicious crust that will retain juiciness.

3. The aromatic sauce: Add the sliced carrots, red wine, and plum brandy. These will not only intensify the flavors but will also contribute to tenderizing the meat during cooking. Add the bay leaf, lovage, a piece of chili pepper, and salt to taste.

4. Slow cooking: Add enough water to cover the meat and cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar. Ask yourself: "How much time do I have?" Here, patience is key. Let the meat simmer on low heat for about 4 hours, stirring occasionally. Know that the slow cooking time will transform the meat into a tender and flavorful delicacy.

5. Preparing the side dish: In a separate pot, add the olive oil, chopped onion, diced carrot, and peas. Cover with water and let it boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally and, if necessary, add water to prevent sticking. The peas will be ready in about 30 minutes, having a slightly crunchy texture.

6. Finishing the sauce: Once the meat is tender, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Use a juicer or blender to turn the carrots and remaining sauce into a fine paste. This sauce will be the star of the dish!

7. Serving: Slice the meat and arrange it on plates. Add the carrot sauce on top and the pea side dish alongside. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips:
- Choose meat with a higher fat content for superior tenderness.
- You can also add other herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for a more complex flavor.
- If you want to balance the sweetness of the carrot sauce, add a bit of lemon juice at the end.

Nutritional benefits:
Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, essential for a healthy diet. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which contributes to eye health, while peas provide a consistent supply of fiber, vitamins B and C, beneficial for digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pork or chicken instead of beef? Yes, but the cooking time will change significantly. Chicken cooks much faster.
- How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet? You can replace the meat with tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of water.

Ideal pairings:
This recipe pairs perfectly with a dry red wine, which will enhance the flavors of the dish. Additionally, a green salad with lemon dressing would be an excellent choice to add a fresh contrast.

Personal notes:
This recipe reminds me of Sunday meals spent with family, where every dish was prepared with love and patience. It is a dish that brings people together and creates unforgettable memories.

In conclusion, beef with carrot sauce and pea side dish is a simple recipe but with a remarkable impact. Cook with patience and love, and the result will meet your expectations. Enjoy your meal!