Beef Salad

Beef Salad with Homemade Mayonnaise: A Delicious Indulgence

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Who doesn't love a well-prepared Beef Salad? This classic recipe, full of flavors and textures, has become a favorite in many households, often made for special occasions. Its origins are tangled, but it is known to have been created to combine simple and accessible ingredients into a tasty and hearty dish. Here’s how you can prepare it at home, with a touch of creativity and love.

Ingredients

- 4 medium carrots
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 can of peas (about 400 g)
- 1/2 kg beef (brisket or shank)
- 1 jar of pickles (preferably small)
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 boiled egg yolk
- 1 raw egg yolk
- 200 ml sunflower oil
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Olives for garnish
- Optional: red bell pepper for decoration

Preparing the Beef Salad

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the carrots and potatoes. Cut the carrots into large pieces and the potatoes into cubes. Make sure to wash them well before boiling. Cut the beef into large cubes.

2. Boiling the vegetables and meat
Put water in a large pot and bring it to a boil. Add the beef and let it simmer. After it reaches a boil, change the water to remove impurities. Boil the meat for about 30 minutes or until tender. In another pot, add the carrots and potatoes and let them boil for 20-25 minutes until soft but not mushy.

3. Preparing the mayonnaise
While the vegetables and meat are boiling, you can prepare the mayonnaise. In a bowl, combine the boiled yolk with the raw one. Gradually add the oil, mixing constantly with a mixer until the emulsion becomes creamy. Add the lemon juice and salt to taste. If you want a more flavorful mayonnaise, you can also add a bit of mustard.

4. Assembling the salad
Once the meat and vegetables are boiled, drain them well and let them cool. Cut the meat into small cubes, and the carrots and potatoes into similarly sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the meat, vegetables, drained peas, diced pickles, and mayonnaise. Add the mustard and salt to taste. Mix everything carefully, ensuring all ingredients blend harmoniously.

5. Garnishing the salad
Transfer the salad to a platter and decorate it with the remaining mayonnaise. You can use olives for garnish and, if you like, create fun shapes with red bell pepper, such as flowers or bugs. This will add a playful touch and impress your guests.

Useful Tips

- Ingredients: Choose quality beef to achieve a better texture. You can also use fresh seasonal vegetables for a more intense flavor.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as celery or bell pepper, to diversify the salad's taste. Additionally, you can replace beef with chicken or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Cooling: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to blend and make the salad even more delicious.

Nutritional Benefits

Beef Salad is an excellent source of protein due to the beef, while the vegetables provide an important intake of vitamins and minerals. Carrots and peas are rich in fiber, which aids digestion. Although it is a hearty recipe, moderate portions can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought mayonnaise?
Yes, if you prefer a quicker preparation. However, homemade mayonnaise tastes better and is healthier.

2. How can I store Beef Salad?
The salad keeps well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days.

3. What can I serve with Beef Salad?
This salad pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or as a side dish to a main meat course. You can also enjoy it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

Personal Note

On a chilly autumn day, I decided to make Beef Salad for a gathering with friends. I added a few fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color, and everyone was delighted with the result. This salad is not just a dish, but a memory filled with beautiful moments spent with loved ones.

In conclusion, Beef Salad with homemade mayonnaise is an excellent choice for any occasion, from festive meals to quick lunches. By following the steps of this recipe, you will achieve a tasty dish that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!