Save to Pinterest 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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Save to Pinterest Common Recipe Questions
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Beef chuck is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, but brisket or stewing beef are good alternatives.
- → Can I use fresh paprika instead of smoked paprika?
Fresh paprika will provide a milder, sweeter flavor. For the distinctive smoky taste, smoked paprika is recommended.
- → How long should the stew simmer?
Simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is very tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- → Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better after resting overnight as flavors meld; simply reheat gently before serving.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with crusty bread, cooked rice, or a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors.