Imagine a hearty, soul-warming dish that transports you straight to the vibrant kitchens of Latin America with just one bite. This Beef Stew in Tomato Sauce (Estofado de Res) is not just a meal—it's a culinary journey that promises to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience. Packed with tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked vegetables, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: Latin American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, cubed
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by cutting the beef into uniform 1-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to promote better browning.
- Season the beef cubes generously with salt, pepper, and paprika, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the spices.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring they develop a deep golden-brown crust without overcrowding the pan.
- Remove the browned beef and set aside. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender and can be easily cut with a fork, and the vegetables are soft but not mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Accompany with rice, crusty bread, or warm tortillas.
Tips
- Meat Selection Matters: Choose a tough, marbled cut like chuck roast or bottom round for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Dry Meat is Key to Browning: Always pat your beef cubes dry before seasoning to ensure a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in flavor.
- Brown in Batches: Don't overcrowd the pan when browning meat. This ensures each piece develops a rich, caramelized exterior.
- Low and Slow is the Secret: Simmer the stew on low heat to break down tough meat fibers and develop deep, complex flavors.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld and the sauce thicken naturally.
- Customize Your Spice: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or oregano to personalize the flavor profile.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance for even richer taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
