💡 Ideas for a change
🍷 Add a splash of red wine to intensify the flavor of the stew.
🌽 Add sweet corn or beans for a different touch.
🌶️ Add a little sweet or spicy paprika to give it character.
🥦 Substitute some potatoes for pumpkin for a lighter, more colorful stew.
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Now that you have everything ready, follow these steps carefully. Each step is important to achieve a juicy stew, full of flavor, and with the perfect texture. Let’s cook!
🔥 1. Brown the Meat Well: The First Step to Flavor
In a large pot (preferably heavy-bottomed), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the meat pieces without overlapping them and brown them on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes.
This process concentrates the juices and adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip it.
🧅 2. Fry the Aromatics
Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and garlic .
Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring, until the onion is translucent and fragrant .
This is where the flavors begin to blend.
🥕 3. Add Root Vegetables
Add the carrots and potatoes .
Stir well to coat them with the onion, garlic, and meat juices.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to intensify the flavors before adding the liquid.
💧 4. Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the 4 cups of hot broth.
Stir well to coat everything, then add the dried thyme , bay leaf , and salt and pepper to taste.
The broth should be fragrant and lightly spiced .
🕰️ 5. Cook over low heat until the meat is tender.
Bring the pot to a boil.
Then reduce the heat , cover, and let it simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours , stirring occasionally.
The meat should be tender enough to flake with a fork .
🟢 6. Add the Peas at the End
Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the frozen peas directly to the stew.
They’ll cook with the heat without losing their color or texture.
🌿 7. Finish with a Fresh Touch and Serve Hot
Before serving, remove the bay leaf.
Serve the stew piping hot in bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro or fresh parsley .
You can accompany it with white rice , artisan bread , or a light salad .
💡 Additional Tips for an Unforgettable Stew
If you want your stew to be memorable, here are some practical tips that will make all the difference.
You can add ½ cup of red wine along with the broth for more flavor.
For a thicker texture, mash some potatoes at the end of cooking.
This dish is even better the next day: the flavors intensify .
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a pressure cooker? Yes, it will reduce the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes, but you’ll lose some of the concentrated flavors from slow cooking.
What cuts of meat are ideal? Cuts with some fat and connective tissue, such as chuck, brisket, or skirt steak, as they tenderize and add more flavor.
Can I freeze stewed meat? Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months. Just let it cool, store in an airtight container, and reheat gently.
❤️ Conclusion: Homemade Flavor That Comforts
This stewed meat is much more than a dish:
it is a tradition that is passed down with every spoonful .
The aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers,
the tenderness of the meat, and the warmth of the vegetables make it impossible not to repeat.
Ideal for any occasion where you want to serve real food ,
made with love and without complications .
Go ahead and prepare it and let the flavor speak for itself! 🍲
