Hearty Beef and Tomato Stew
Christmas Dinner Recommendation: Rich Beef and Tomato Stew
As a lover of classic Western-style vegetable soups, I’ve experimented with many variations, and this beef and tomato stew has become a favorite, perfect for pairing with wine or serving to guests! Its preparation is similar to curry, making it easily accessible even for novice cooks!
Beef and Tomato Stew Ingredients- Beef 200g
- 1/2 Onion
- 1 Potato
- 2 Mini bell peppers
- 1 Korean green chili pepper (optional, for heat)
- 3-4 Dried chili flakes (peperoncino)
- 2 Bay leaves
Seasoning & Broth Ingredients- 2 Tbsp Chicken stock
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 can Tomato paste (or whole peeled tomatoes)
- 4 Tbsp Olive oil
- 2 Tbsp Chicken stock
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 can Tomato paste (or whole peeled tomatoes)
- 4 Tbsp Olive oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare all the ingredients by cutting them into bite-sized pieces suitable for stew. Aim for a similar size to vegetables used in curry. This ensures even cooking and easy eating.
Step 2
You can use fresh tomatoes by blanching and peeling them, or opt for canned whole peeled tomatoes or tomato paste. The product mentioned, which contained basil, was particularly delicious, but if it’s hard to find, consider adding dried basil to regular tomato paste for a similar aromatic boost.
Step 3
Thaw the beef (Korean beef brisket is recommended) and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any excess moisture and blood. Properly trimming brisket results in a lean, flavorful cut that surpasses many imported sirloins in quality.
Step 4
Cut the prepared beef into cubes and lightly season with salt and pepper. This initial seasoning enhances the beef’s natural flavor.
Step 5
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and sauté until they begin to soften and lightly brown. Sprinkle with a pinch of black pepper as they cook.
Step 6
Once the potatoes are partially cooked, add the seasoned beef and crushed dried chili flakes. Increase the heat to medium-high and stir-fry briskly. Searing the beef quickly helps to lock in its juices.
Step 7
When the beef is no longer pink on the outside and has browned slightly, add all the prepared vegetables (onion, mini bell peppers, etc.). Continue to stir-fry until the vegetables are slightly softened and translucent, which brings out their natural sweetness.
Step 8
Pour in about 2 tablespoons of chicken stock (or swirl the pan about three times if using liquid stock). Be mindful not to add too much, as it can make the stew too salty. The chicken stock adds a deep, savory base.
Step 9
While it’s tempting to eat it as is, our goal is a rich stew. Let’s take a moment to enjoy a couple of beef pieces before proceeding to the next steps!
Step 10
Add 400ml of warm water. Using warm water helps to speed up the cooking process and allows the flavors to meld more effectively.
Step 11
Once the stew begins to simmer, add the bay leaves. Bay leaves are excellent for removing any gamey or unwanted odors while imparting a subtle, pleasant herbaceous aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 12
Add the entire can of tomato paste and stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, covered. This allows the tomato paste to deepen its flavor and meld with the other ingredients.
Step 13
Stir occasionally to prevent the stew from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Gentle stirring ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
Step 14
The stew is ready when it has thickened to your desired consistency, becoming rich and hearty. Check that the vegetables and beef are tender and the sauce has a deep flavor.
Step 15
Ladle the finished stew into a bowl. Serving it with crusty baguette bread makes for a delightful presentation. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh, vibrant garnish, elevating its visual appeal to restaurant-worthy.
Step 16
While curry pairs wonderfully with rice, this beef and tomato stew is best enjoyed with a simple, crusty bread like baguette or ciabatta. The complex flavors – the tangy tomato base, aromatic herbs, and tender beef and vegetables – create a harmonious and satisfying dish.
Step 17
Generously spoon the hearty stew over a slice of bread for a truly comforting bite! It’s an excellent appetizer or accompaniment for wine, making it a perfect choice for holiday gatherings, Christmas dinners, or housewarming parties. However, it’s also wonderfully simple to make for a satisfying meal on any day, much like preparing a comforting curry.
