Beef Salad

Beef Salad: A Classic and Savory Delicacy

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Who doesn’t nostalgically remember festive meals filled with goodies, where beef salad takes its honorable place? This salad is a true emblem of gastronomy, loved for its rich taste and creamy texture. Although the ingredients may vary based on preferences, the essence remains the same: a delicious combination of meat, vegetables, and mayonnaise. So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure!

Ingredients

- 500 g beef (preferably shoulder or neck)
- 500 g potatoes
- 300 g carrots
- 150 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 7-8 pickled cucumbers
- 7-8 pickled peppers
- 400 g mayonnaise (preferably homemade for a more intense flavor)
- 50 g mustard (optional, for an extra flavor)
- Salt, pepper, and lemon juice (to taste)
- 1 root celery (optional, for a more complex flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the beef
Start by washing the beef under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, place it in a pot with cold water, add a little salt, and let it boil over medium heat. Boil the meat for about 30-40 minutes or until tender. Once ready, remove the meat from the water and let it cool on a plate, then chop it finely. This step is essential, as well-cooked and evenly cut meat will give a pleasant texture to the salad.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables
In the meantime, wash the potatoes and carrots, then peel them. Cut the potatoes into cubes and the carrots into rounds. Boil both vegetables in salted water for 15-20 minutes or until soft but not overcooked. After they cool down, chop them into small cubes to integrate harmoniously into the salad.

If using fresh peas, wash them well, then boil them in salted water for 5-7 minutes. If frozen, let them thaw and rinse under cold water.

Step 3: Preparing the pickled ingredients
The pickled cucumbers and peppers should be washed under cold running water to remove excess salt. Cut them into very small cubes to combine perfectly with the other ingredients. They will add a tangy note to the salad, balancing the rich taste of the meat.

Step 4: Assembling the salad
In a large bowl, combine the chopped meat, boiled vegetables (potatoes, carrots, and peas), and the pickled ingredients (cucumbers and peppers). If you want to add extra flavor, you can include grated root celery.

Add the mayonnaise and mustard, then mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly coated. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings according to your preferences.

Step 5: Serving
Transfer the salad to a platter and shape it attractively. You can decorate it with slices of boiled egg, olives, or even sprigs of fresh parsley. Every detail counts, so let your imagination soar!

Practical Tips

1. Meat: You can replace beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
2. Mayonnaise: Homemade mayonnaise will add an authentic taste to the salad. You can experiment with olive oil or sunflower oil for a different flavor.
3. Vegetables: Add other vegetables according to your preferences, such as bell peppers or canned mushrooms, for a variety of textures and flavors.
4. Serving: Beef salad pairs perfectly with fresh bread or croutons. You can also serve it alongside a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of beef salad (approximately 150 g) has around 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used. This salad is rich in protein due to the beef and contains many vitamins from the vegetables, while also being a source of fiber, essential for digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient option and can be used without any issues.

2. How long does beef salad last in the fridge?
The salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy the best flavors.

3. Can I make beef salad without mayonnaise?
Sure! You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette for a lighter version.

4. How can I customize the recipe?
You can add spices like sweet paprika, garlic, or herbs to vary the flavors.

The Story Behind the Recipe

Beef salad, as we know it, has become a symbol of festive meals. Over the decades, it has been reinvented and adapted according to personal tastes, yet it remains a classic choice for special occasions. This recipe evokes not only culinary traditions but also moments spent with family around the table. Each ingredient carries a story, and each preparation becomes a memory.

I recommend trying this simple and delicious recipe, experimenting with the ingredients, and adding a touch of creativity to its preparation. The delight is guaranteed!