Beef and Onions with Cumin: A Flavorful Stew Recipe
This delightful stew, featuring tender strips of beef and aromatic onions, is perfectly complemented by rice and a refreshing mixed salad, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal. Originating from a well-loved second-hand cookbook, this recipe has been adapted over time to suit personal tastes, and variations like adding mushrooms or a dollop of sour cream enhance its creamy texture and richness. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish promises to be a hit.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Beef and Onions with Cumin |
| Cook Time | 1 hour |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Description | A very tasty stew that goes beautifully with rice and a crisp mixed salad. Adapted from a second-hand shop cookbook, with optional additions of mushrooms and sour cream. |
| Recipe Category | Meat |
| Keywords | beef stew, easy recipes, hearty meals |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories per Serving | 106 |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onions | 1 1/2 medium, sliced |
| Butter | 12 grams (about 1 tablespoon) |
| Plain flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic | 1 clove, peeled and crushed |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Marjoram | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Beef (preferably sirloin or flank) | 1 pound, cut into thin strips |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fat | 6.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 7.6 mg |
| Sodium | 364.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 9.9 g |
| Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Sugar | 3.6 g |
| Protein | 2.3 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Beef: Begin by cutting the beef across the grain into thin strips, ensuring even cooking and tenderness. Aim for finger-length pieces for optimal texture.
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Slice the Onions: Peel the onions and slice them crossways into rings. This will add sweetness and depth to the stew as they cook down.
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Sauté the Onions: In a large frying pan, combine the butter and a splash of oil over medium-low heat. Once the butter has melted, add the onion rings to the pan. Cover and cook the onions gently, stirring occasionally until they turn transparent. The key here is to ensure they soften without browning; this process should take about 10–15 minutes.
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Brown the Beef: After the onions have softened, remove them from the pan and set aside. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the strips of beef. Sear the meat until it’s browned on all sides, which will take around 5–7 minutes. The high heat will help develop a rich flavor in the meat.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the beef is browned, return the cooked onion rings to the pan. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir thoroughly to combine. The flour will help thicken the stew as it cooks.
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Add Stock and Seasonings: Gradually pour in the stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Then, add the crushed garlic, cumin, marjoram, wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
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Simmer the Stew: Cover the pan and reduce the heat to a moderate level. Allow the stew to simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
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Final Touches: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If desired, serve with a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish. You can also add sautéed mushrooms during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
This Beef and Onions with Cumin recipe is a heartwarming dish that embodies the comfort of a home-cooked meal. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or explore variations, it’s bound to satisfy and delight everyone at the table. Enjoy with fluffy rice and a crisp salad to balance the richness of the stew, making for a truly memorable dining experience.
