Cazuela de Vacuno: A Hearty Chilean Beef Stew
Experience the rich flavors of traditional Chilean cuisine with Cazuela de Vacuno, a comforting beef stew that combines tender chunks of beef with a colorful array of vegetables and spices. This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful way to nourish the body and soul. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to prepare this delicious Cazuela de Vacuno:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef short ribs (with bone) | 1 1/2 kg |
| Medium potatoes (peeled) | 4 |
| Sweet pumpkin (cut into chunks) | 4 pieces |
| Green beans (cut into thin strips) | 1 cup |
| Red bell pepper (sliced) | 1/2 |
| Carrot (cut into julienne strips) | 1 |
| Garlic cloves (peeled and whole) | 1-2 |
| Onion (sliced into julienne strips) | 1/2 |
| Corn (cut in half) | 4 halves |
| Uncooked rice | 1/2 cup |
| Oregano | 1 pinch |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Celery sprig | 1 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
Instructions
Prepare to savor a heartwarming bowl of Cazuela de Vacuno by following these detailed steps:
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Prepare the Broth: Begin by placing the beef short ribs into a large pot and adding 1.5 liters of cold water. Season the water generously with salt, pepper, the sprig of celery, the whole garlic cloves, and sliced onion. Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-low heat, allowing the mixture to simmer for approximately 25 minutes.
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Add Root Vegetables: Once the broth is aromatic and the beef has started to tenderize, incorporate the julienne carrots, sliced red bell pepper, whole peeled potatoes, and uncooked rice into the pot. Allow these ingredients to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Next, add the sweet pumpkin and corn halves to the pot. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, then introduce the thinly sliced green beans. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
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Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After the cooking time, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed. Make sure to check that all vegetables are properly cooked. If some vegetables are tender while others still need time, remove the cooked ones and allow the others to continue cooking.
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Combine and Rest: Once everything is fully cooked, gently combine all ingredients in the pot and let the Cazuela de Vacuno rest for a few moments. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve: To serve, ladle a generous portion into each bowl, ensuring that every serving includes a piece of beef, a potato, a chunk of pumpkin, a piece of corn, and plenty of the colorful vegetables along with the flavorful broth, topped with a sprinkling of rice.
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Garnish and Enjoy: For an added touch of freshness, consider garnishing each bowl with fresh cilantro or parsley. This will not only enhance the presentation but also add a delightful herbal note to the dish.
Conclusion
Cazuela de Vacuno is more than just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in tradition and flavor, perfect for sharing with loved ones. The combination of hearty beef, seasonal vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or at a family gathering, this recipe will surely impress and satisfy.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your preferences and enjoy this vibrant dish that brings a taste of Chile right to your table!
