Title: Savory Beef Stew with a Sweet and Tangy Twist
Ingredients:
- 500 grams beef, cut into cubes
- 4 shallots, finely chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- 500 ml water (for initial cooking; approximately 1500 ml in total)
- Tamarind, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beef: Start by cutting the beef into bite-sized cubes. Rub the beef with tamarind to add a tangy flavor and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
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Cook the Beef: Add the cubed beef to the pan with the shallots and garlic. Stir well to combine and cook until the beef is browned on all sides.
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Simmer the Stew: Pour in 500 ml of water along with the chopped tomato. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
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Season the Stew: Once the water has come to a boil, add the sweet soy sauce, tomato ketchup, salt, sugar, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
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Continue Cooking: Since the beef may still be tough, add additional water as needed. You’ll want to add water in two more stages, totaling about 1500 ml (3 times). Continue to simmer the stew until the beef becomes tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
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Final Touches: When the beef is tender and the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency (it should be somewhat thick), turn off the heat.
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Serve: Serve your savory beef stew hot, perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy it with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
This savory beef stew combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and garlic with the sweetness of soy sauce and the tanginess of tamarind, creating a deliciously balanced dish that’s sure to be a hit.
