What To Know
- Use a combination of bell peppers for a vibrant flavor and color.
- Brown the beef in a skillet, then transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker.
- Add a splash of red wine or beer for a richer flavor.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Dominican Republic with this authentic beef stew recipe. Its rich and savory broth, tender beef, and hearty vegetables will transport you to the vibrant streets of Santo Domingo.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup peas
Instructions:
1. Season the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Brown the Beef: Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, green bell peppers, and red bell peppers to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened.
4. Add Aromatics: Stir in the garlic, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, water, bay leaves, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Return the Beef: Add the browned beef back to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. Add Potatoes and Carrots: Add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Stir in Peas: Add the peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Serve: Serve the beef stew hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or plantains.
Tips for Perfect Beef Stew:
- Use a flavorful cut of beef, such as chuck roast or short ribs.
- Brown the beef well to develop rich flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the beef; cook it in batches if necessary.
- Use a combination of bell peppers for a vibrant flavor and color.
- Add vegetables that you enjoy; other options include sweet potatoes, celery, or zucchini.
- Don’t overcook the stew; the beef should be tender but not mushy.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
The Dominican Twist:
What sets this beef stew apart from others is the use of Dominican seasonings. The oregano, cumin, and bay leaves add a distinct warmth and depth of flavor.
Health Benefits of Beef Stew:
Not only is beef stew delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Beef is a good source of protein, iron, and zinc. The vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your beef stew with the following sides:
- White rice
- Red beans
- Fried plantains
- Mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What can I use instead of beef broth?
You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water. However, beef broth will provide the most flavorful stew.
2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Brown the beef in a skillet, then transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
3. How can I thicken the stew?
If your stew is too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir into the boiling stew and cook until thickened.
4. Can I freeze beef stew?
Yes, you can. Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it over medium heat until warmed through.
5. What are some variations on this recipe?
- Add a can of diced tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Use different types of vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, celery, or zucchini.
- Add a splash of red wine or beer for a richer flavor.
