Spanish Beef and Potato Stew with Saffron from La Mancha
Description
Embark on a culinary journey to La Mancha with this heartwarming Spanish Beef and Potato Stew, often referred to as “tonjunto,” which translates to “everything is thrown all together.” This dish embodies the essence of simplicity and comfort, featuring tender chunks of beef melded with hearty potatoes and vibrant vegetables, all infused with the aromatic essence of saffron. Perfect for serving with a side of crusty bread, this stew promises a delightful dining experience that warms the soul.
Recipe Information
| Recipe Category | Stew |
|---|---|
| Total Time | 2 hours 20 minutes |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 2 hours |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories per Serving | 1087.9 |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 76.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 23.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 170.9 mg |
| Sodium | 1900.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38.6 g |
| Fiber | 4.6 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Protein | 50.5 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Extra virgin olive oil |
| 2 | Green bell peppers, diced |
| 1 | Onion, chopped |
| 6 | Garlic cloves, minced |
| 2 1/4 pounds | Stewing beef, cut into chunks |
| 1 1/4 pounds | Boiling potatoes, peeled and diced |
| 1 tablespoon | Salt |
| 1 teaspoon | Fresh ground black pepper |
| 1/4 teaspoon | Whole cloves |
| 1 | Bay leaf |
| 1 teaspoon | Saffron threads |
| 1 cup | Dry white wine |
Instructions
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Prepare the Base: In a large stew pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly. Once heated, add the diced green bell peppers, followed by the chopped onion and minced garlic cloves. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the stew.
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Add the Beef: Next, introduce the chunks of stewing beef into the pot. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the beef is well-coated with the sautéed vegetables. Allow the beef to brown slightly on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes, sealing in the juices and enhancing the overall flavor.
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Layer with Potatoes: Once the beef is nicely browned, layer the diced boiling potatoes on top of the beef in the pot. This layering not only adds substance to the stew but also allows the potatoes to absorb the flavors from the beef as it cooks.
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Season the Stew: Sprinkle the salt, freshly ground black pepper, whole cloves, and bay leaf over the potato layer. Gently mix these seasonings in, ensuring even distribution across the ingredients. Finally, sprinkle the saffron threads over the top, allowing their rich golden hue and unique flavor to infuse into the stew.
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Add Liquid: Carefully pour the dry white wine over the ingredients in the pot. Follow this by adding enough water to cover the entire mixture generously. This liquid is crucial for the slow cooking process, as it helps tenderize the beef and blend the flavors beautifully.
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Simmer: Bring the stew to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot with a lid. Allow the stew to simmer gently for approximately 2 hours. During this time, the meat will become exceptionally tender, and the flavors will meld together harmoniously, creating a rich and savory broth.
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Finishing Touches: After the cooking time has elapsed, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving. This stew is best enjoyed immediately, as the flavors are at their peak, but it can also be made ahead of time and reheated for a comforting meal later.
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Serving Suggestions: Ladle the Spanish Beef and Potato Stew into bowls and serve with a side of crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. This hearty dish is sure to please everyone at the table, providing a satisfying and fulfilling meal.
Conclusion
This Spanish Beef and Potato Stew with Saffron from La Mancha captures the spirit of traditional home cooking, where every ingredient plays a vital role in creating a dish that is both delicious and nourishing. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, it’s a fantastic addition to your recipe collection, ready to be enjoyed on any occasion. Indulge in this comforting stew and experience the warmth and authenticity of La Mancha cuisine.
