Introduction
This Smoky Braised Beef with Potatoes and Rosemary is a deeply flavorful dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table. The tender chunks of beef, infused with the smoky richness of paprika and the earthiness of rosemary, are slow-cooked to perfection and served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty meal is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- Beef: 1 kg (2.2 lbs), cut into large chunks
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Hot Pepper: 1, chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
- Rosemary: 2 sprigs
- Smoked Paprika Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Beef Broth: 400ml (13.5 fl oz)
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Coriander: A handful, chopped
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium, peeled and chopped
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Warm Milk: 150-200ml (5-7 fl oz)
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per Serving: 510 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
- Sear the Beef:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the beef chunks and sear them until browned on all sides. This helps to develop a rich flavor base for the stew. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
- Sauté the Onion and Bell Pepper:
- In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion and chopped bell pepper. Cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Hot Pepper:
- Add the minced garlic and chopped hot pepper (if using), and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Incorporate the Smoked Paprika:
- Stir in the smoked paprika and cook for another minute, allowing the smoky flavor to permeate the vegetables.
3. Simmer the Stew
- Add Beef and Seasonings:
- Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the rosemary sprigs, bay leaves, and beef broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for 2-2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check the liquid level, adding more broth or water if necessary.
4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes:
- About 30 minutes before the stew is ready, boil the chopped potatoes in a separate pot with salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and warm milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Finish the Stew
- Final Touches:
- Once the beef is tender, remove the rosemary sprigs and bay leaves from the stew. Stir in the chopped coriander for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Serve
- Plate the Dish:
- Serve the smoky braised beef stew hot, accompanied by a generous portion of mashed potatoes. The combination of the rich, flavorful stew with the creamy mashed potatoes makes for a truly satisfying meal.
Conclusion
This Smoky Braised Beef with Potatoes and Rosemary is a rich and hearty dish that’s sure to impress. With its deep, smoky flavor and tender beef, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or any special occasion. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious sauce, and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor.