Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Cover the pot and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
8. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
5. Temperature:
Medium-high heat for browning the beef, and then simmer over low heat.
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of beef stew meat, such as chuck roast or sirloin.
- You can use any type of oil for cooking, such as olive oil or canola oil.
- You can use any type of broth, such as chicken or vegetable broth.
- You can add other vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers.
Variations:
- You can add a can of diced tomatoes for a more tomato-based flavor.
- You can add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a tangier flavor.
- You can add a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary for an herby flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brown the beef well before adding the vegetables to develop a rich flavor.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover beef tocana in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the beef tocana in a pot over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the beef tocana in a bowl with a side of crusty bread.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or rice.
Suggested side dishes:
- Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef is tough, simmer for a longer time until tender.
- If the vegetables are too soft, reduce the cooking time.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the beef to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Beef tocana is a traditional Romanian stew made with beef, vegetables, and paprika.
Flavor profiles:
- The beef tocana has a rich and savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the carrots.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the beef tocana as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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Region: Romanian