Beef Salad

Beef Salad: A Delicious Tradition for Any Occasion

Who doesn't love a well-made beef salad? This classic recipe, full of flavor, is a true feast for the senses and an excellent choice for holiday meals or simply for those moments when we crave a comforting dish. Although it is often associated with celebrating special moments, we have discovered that it can be enjoyed anytime you desire! In this guide, I will share with you how to prepare a perfect beef salad, step by step, as well as some tricks and variations to customize it to your taste.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the salad:
- 500 g beef (preferably shoulder or neck)
- 500 g potatoes
- 5-6 pickled cucumbers
- 5 pickled bell peppers
- 5 medium carrots
- 1 small celery (root)
- 200 g frozen peas
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the mayonnaise:
- 600 ml oil (sunflower or canola)
- 2 boiled egg yolks
- 1 raw egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt, to taste

Short history

Beef salad has a long history, with deep roots in European cuisine. It has evolved over time, with each region contributing its own touch regarding ingredients and preparation. Over the years, the salad has become a symbol of hospitality and generosity, often prepared for holidays and special events. Even though the recipe has undergone many changes, its essence remains the same: a delicious combination of meat, vegetables, and mayonnaise.

Step by step: Preparing the beef salad

Step 1: Cooking the meat
1. Start by washing the beef well under cold running water.
2. Place the meat in a large pot and fill it with water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once the water starts to boil, remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This step is important for obtaining a clear and clean broth.
4. Reduce the heat and let the meat simmer for about 1 hour or until tender.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables
1. Meanwhile, wash the potatoes thoroughly and boil them with the skin on to retain nutrients.
2. Peel the carrots and celery, then wash them and boil them along with the frozen peas. These vegetables will add extra color and flavor to your salad.

Step 3: Preparing the mayonnaise
1. While the meat and vegetables are boiling, you can prepare the mayonnaise. Use an immersion blender to achieve a smooth and creamy mayonnaise.
2. In a bowl, add the boiled egg yolks and the raw one, a pinch of salt, and the mustard. Blend well until homogeneous.
3. Start adding the oil gradually, alternating with the lemon juice. Continue blending until the mayonnaise reaches a light and dense texture. It is important to add the oil slowly to prevent the mayonnaise from breaking.

Step 4: Assembling the salad
1. Once all the ingredients are cooked, remove them from the water and let them cool. Then, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes, as well as the meat, carrot, and celery.
2. In a large bowl, combine all the cooked ingredients and the diced pickled vegetables (cucumbers and bell peppers).
3. Season with salt and pepper, then add the mayonnaise (saving 3 tablespoons for decoration). Gently mix everything to avoid crushing the ingredients.

Step 5: Serving
1. Transfer the salad to a platter or tray. Use the reserved mayonnaise to decorate the salad, adding a few slices of cucumber and bell pepper for an attractive appearance.
2. The beef salad can be served immediately or left in the refrigerator for a few hours to intensify the flavors.

Practical tips
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of beef salad contains approximately 300-350 calories, being a good source of protein from meat and vitamins from vegetables. It is an excellent choice for a balanced meal.
- Variations: You can add olives or sweet corn for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with herbs, such as fresh parsley, to give the dish a fresher taste.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Is beef salad suitable for vegans? No, but you can adapt the recipe using tofu or quinoa as an alternative to meat and vegan mayonnaise.
- How can I keep the salad fresh? Beef salad keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. It is even better the next day!

Serving suggestions
Beef salad pairs perfectly with fresh or crunchy bread. You can accompany the dish with a refreshing white wine or a cocktail appetizer to add extra elegance to your meal.

I hope this guide has helped you prepare a delicious and flavorful beef salad! Don't forget to experiment and put your personal touch on the recipe. Cooking is about joy and creativity, so let your imagination soar! Bon appétit!