Beef sparrow with carrot and sweet potato puree

Beef Flank Steak with Carrot and Sweet Potato Mash

In the culinary world, few dishes manage to capture attention and bring a touch of elegance to our table like a flank steak, accompanied by a creamy mash of carrots and sweet potatoes. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an opportunity to explore delicious and healthy combinations.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4

History and Inspiration of the Recipe

Flank steak is a noble cut, rich in flavors, that has been appreciated for centuries in international gastronomy. This dish is often associated with festive meals, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or family dinners. The carrot and sweet potato mash, on the other hand, is a modern combination that blends the natural sweetness of the vegetables with a fine texture, providing a perfect contrast to the juicy meat.

Ingredients

- 1 kg flank steak
- 2 carrots
- 1 sweet potato
- 8 ripe cherry tomatoes
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 white onions
- 1 head of garlic
- 150 ml beef/vegetable broth/boiled water
- 35-40 g butter
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)

Step by Step: Preparing Beef Flank Steak with Carrot and Sweet Potato Mash

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by peeling the onions and cutting them into quarters. Then, peel the garlic and leave it whole. This step is essential to maintain the intense flavors and give a rich taste to the dish.

2. Roasting the Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the onions and head of garlic in a baking tray, add a little olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast the vegetables for 30 minutes until golden and caramelized. This process will intensify the flavors and add a delicious note to the flank steak.

3. Preparing the Flank Steak: In a deep skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper, then sear it on all sides for about 4-5 minutes each. This will create a delicious crust that will retain the juiciness of the meat.

4. Baking: Once the flank steak is browned, transfer it to the tray alongside the roasted vegetables. Add the beef or vegetable broth and the thyme sprigs. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and bake for an hour at 160 degrees Celsius.

5. Preparing the Mash: Meanwhile, peel the carrots and sweet potato, then cut them into cubes. Boil them in salted water for 15 minutes or until soft. Drain the water, add the butter, and mash the vegetables until you achieve a creamy consistency. You can adjust the texture with a little milk if desired.

6. Finalizing the Dish: After the flank steak is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. If you want a thicker sauce, you can add the cornstarch diluted in a little water to the sauce in the tray and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

7. Serving: Place the flank steak on a platter alongside the carrot and sweet potato mash, and garnish with roasted cherry tomatoes.

Useful Tips

- Choosing the Meat: Ensure that the flank steak is of high quality, ideally from a trusted supplier. The meat should be red with evenly distributed fat.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables for the mash, such as celery or regular potatoes. Add spices like nutmeg or allspice for a more complex flavor.
- Share with Friends: This recipe pairs perfectly with a dry red wine or craft beer. It offers a delightful culinary experience that you can share with loved ones.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use pork or chicken? Yes, you can adapt the recipe to use other types of meat, but cooking times will vary.
- How can I store leftovers? You can keep the flank steak and mash in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet to maintain juiciness.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Flank steak is an excellent source of protein, contributing to tissue development and repair. Carrots and sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, being rich in beta-carotene and fiber, which help maintain healthy digestion.

Of course, every meal cooked with love has a personal touch, and I suggest adding a few fresh parsley or dill leaves for an extra freshness. This beef flank steak with carrot and sweet potato mash is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will transport you to a world of refined flavors. Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite!