Savory Beef and Mushroom Stew
This delightful beef and mushroom stew is a perfect blend of tender minced beef, earthy mushrooms, and a medley of fresh vegetables cooked to perfection. The dish is hearty and rich, with the additional flavors of tomato paste and garlic-pepper seasoning enhancing the taste. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that the natural flavors of each component shine through, making every bite a delight. It’s a comforting meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul, ideal for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of beef and mushrooms provides a satisfying umami flavor, while the added vegetables give a touch of freshness and nutrition. This stew can be paired with a variety of sides such as rice, potatoes, or even polenta, offering versatility in serving. Additionally, it’s a quick recipe to prepare, making it suitable for busy weeknight dinners. With just a handful of ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can create a gourmet meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 400 g minced beef
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 carrot
- 1 onion
- 300 g mushrooms (variety that requires no boiling)
- 2 stalks of celery
- 2 tomatoes
Spices and Seasonings
- Garlic-pepper seasoning to taste
- 4 tsp seasoning mix for minced meat
Preparation Time
- Total: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Prepare Ingredients: Begin by finely chopping all the vegetables and mushrooms. This will ensure they cook evenly.
- Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and mushrooms to the pan.
- Sauté Vegetables: Continuously stir the vegetables and mushrooms, cooking them until they reach an al dente texture. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Beef: Introduce the minced beef to the pan. Use a spatula to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Cook Beef Thoroughly: Ensure the beef is browned and fully cooked through, absorbing the flavors from the vegetables.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it coats the beef and vegetables evenly.
- Season the Dish: Sprinkle in the garlic-pepper seasoning and minced meat seasoning. Adjust the salt to your preference.
- Add Liquid: Pour a little water into the pan to help with the cooking process, creating a slight sauce without making the stew too soupy.
- Simmer the Stew: Lower the heat and allow the dish to simmer. This helps in melding all flavors together and tenderizing the ingredients further.
- Check Consistency: Ensure that the mixture is not sticking to the pan, adding water if necessary to keep a desirable consistency.
- Final Cooking: Continue cooking until the diced tomatoes soften and the celery turns tender, which should take about 10 minutes.
- Taste Test: Sample the stew, adjusting the seasoning if needed, especially focusing on the salt and spice levels.
- Prepare Sides: While the stew simmers, prepare side dishes such as rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta, making sure they are ready for serving alongside.
- Rest the Dish: Once cooked, remove the stew from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to further develop.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley, for an added layer of freshness and presentation.
- Serve: Scoop portions onto plates, presenting alongside your chosen side dishes.
- Enjoy with Salad: Optionally, serve with a fresh leafy green salad for added crunch and nutrition.
- Store Leftovers: If not consuming immediately, allow the stew to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Reheat and Stir: When reheating, stir frequently to ensure even heating and avoid scorching.
- Savor Every Bite: With a spoonful of stew in your mouth, savor the mingling flavors and perfect harmony of this satisfying dish.
Tips
- Substitutions: For a lighter version, substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or beans instead of beef for a vegetarian alternative.
- Extra Flavor: Add a dash of red wine or soy sauce for depth of flavor.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fats: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped chili or cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
- Herb Infusion: Include herbs like oregano or basil for an Italian twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with freshly baked bread or garlic toast.
- Pair with a glass of red wine to complement the rich flavors.
- Include a side of mixed greens topped with a light vinaigrette.
Best Places
- Chez Panisse - Renowned for its farm-to-table approach, offering unique takes on classic dishes. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, California, USA.
- Le Meurice - Offers an exquisite French dining experience, perfect for savoring gourmet meals. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
- The Ledbury - Known for its innovative cuisine and exceptional service, featuring an ever-changing menu. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, United Kingdom.
- Osteria Francescana - Celebrated for its modern twist on Italian cuisine, offering a memorable dining experience. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
- Noma - Famous for its cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. Location: Refshalevej 96, 1432 Copenhagen, Denmark.
- El Celler de Can Roca - Renowned for its creative and artistic approach to cooking, offering a grand tasting menu. Location: Can Sunyer 48, 17007 Girona, Spain.
- Gaggan - Offers progressive Indian cuisine, taking diners on a culinary adventure. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Rd, Bangkok, Thailand.
- Per Se - Known for its meticulously prepared dishes and serene dining atmosphere. Location: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY, USA.
- Quintonil - Celebrates traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary techniques. Location: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Mugaritz - Offers an avant-garde dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Location: Aldura Aldea, 20, 20100 Errenteria, Gipuzkoa, Spain.