Pin It A hearty, robust stew featuring tender beef simmered with smoked paprika, garlic, and vegetables perfect for comforting meals on a budget.
Ingredients
- Meats: 800 g (1.75 lb) beef chuck, cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes
- Vegetables: 2 medium onions, finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced, 2 stalks celery, sliced, 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks, 1 red bell pepper, chopped, 400 g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
- Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) beef broth, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot over medium high heat Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides Remove and set aside
- Step 2:
- Lower heat to medium Add onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Step 3:
- Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly
- Step 4:
- Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell pepper Mix well
- Step 5:
- Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, salt, and pepper
- Step 6:
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine Bring to a simmer
- Step 7:
- Cover and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is very tender and vegetables are cooked through
- Step 8:
- Discard bay leaf Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Serve hot
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Pin It Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Beef chuck is ideal as it becomes tender and flavorful after slow simmering, but brisket or stewing beef are good alternatives.
- → Can I add wine to enhance the flavor?
Yes, a splash of red wine added during simmering deepens the stew’s richness and adds a subtle acidity.
- → How do smoked paprika and garlic affect the flavor?
Smoked paprika lends a warm, smoky layer, while garlic adds a fragrant punch that elevates the dish's savory profile.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Crusty bread or steamed rice complement the stew perfectly, soaking up the rich broth and balancing the spices.
- → How long should the stew simmer for optimal tenderness?
Simmering gently for 1.5 to 2 hours ensures the beef becomes tender and allows the vegetables to meld seamlessly into the broth.