Indulge your senses with the rich and aromatic flavors of the Azorean Spiced Beef Stew, a culinary gem from the heart of Portugal! This hearty dish, known as Picante Guiso de Carne de las Azores, is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and comforting. With tender beef simmered to perfection in a savory blend of spices, tomatoes, and red wine, each bite transports you to the lush landscapes of the Azores. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game and impress your family or guests? Dive into our detailed recipe and discover the secrets to creating this mouthwatering stew that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Portuguese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Beef, cubed
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Red bell pepper, chopped
- Tomatoes, diced
- Red wine
- Olive oil
- Paprika
- Bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cutting beef into 1-inch cubes, finely chopping onions and red bell peppers, mincing garlic, and dicing tomatoes.
- Season beef cubes generously with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Brown the seasoned beef cubes in batches, ensuring each piece develops a deep golden-brown crust. Remove browned meat and set aside.
- In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and sauté chopped onions and red bell peppers until softened and slightly translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Return browned beef to the pot and add diced tomatoes, red wine, and bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Allow the stew to slowly cook for
- 5-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef becomes tender and sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.
- Remove bay leaves before serving hot, preferably accompanied by crusty bread or rice.
Tips
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality beef for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for cuts like chuck or brisket, which are ideal for slow cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when browning the beef. This step is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors in the stew. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot; brown the beef in batches if necessary.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your stew before serving! Depending on your preference, you may want to add more salt, pepper, or paprika to enhance the flavors.
- Let It Rest: If you have time, let the stew rest for a bit after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Azorean Spiced Beef Stew with crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up the savory sauce, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
