Are you craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than Mom’s Portuguese Beef Stew! This classic dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, known for its rich and savory broth, tender chunks of beef, and colorful array of vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a chilly evening or hosting a dinner party with friends, this Portuguese Beef Stew is sure to impress. Join us as we explore how to make this delicious recipe from scratch, including variations for keto and low-carb diets.
Introduction
Mom’s Portuguese Beef Stew is a beloved family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this stew is both satisfying and nourishing. The combination of tender beef, aromatic spices, and hearty vegetables creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this Portuguese Beef Stew is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this comforting dish!
Ingredients:
For the Stew:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 carrot, diced
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) green beans, drained
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 red potatoes, diced
- 1 sweet potato, diced
- 1/2 fresh tomato, diced
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of paprika
- Pinch of salt
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Season the Beef: Sprinkle the flour, black pepper, paprika, and salt over the beef, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the flour and spices.
- Add the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, diced carrot, diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and chopped parsley to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Simmer the Stew: Add the diced potatoes, sweet potato, diced tomato, drained green beans, and bay leaves to the pot. Pour in the water and bring the stew to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the stew is cooked to perfection, remove the bay leaves and discard. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Mom’s Portuguese Beef Stew!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Slow Cooker Method: To make this stew in a slow cooker, simply follow steps 1 and 2 to brown the beef and seasonings. Transfer the beef and aromatics to a slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version of this stew, omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead of water. Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini for added flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or stir in some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of Mom’s Portuguese Beef Stew, simply omit the potatoes and sweet potatoes from the recipe. Instead, you can add low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, or bell peppers. Serve the stew over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower for a satisfying keto meal.
Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb version of this stew, you can reduce the amount of potatoes used or omit them altogether. Replace the potatoes with additional low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, turnips, or radishes. You can also thicken the stew with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum or glucomannan powder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of meat in this stew? A: Yes, you can use a different type of meat such as lamb, chicken, or pork instead of beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you use.
Q: Can I make this stew in advance? A: Yes, this stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it a day ahead and simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze this stew? A: Yes, this stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with this stew? A: This stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Mom’s Portuguese Beef Stew is a timeless recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner at home or hosting a gathering with friends and family, this hearty and flavorful stew is sure to impress. With its tender beef, aromatic spices, and colorful vegetables, it’s a dish that will warm your soul and satisfy your appetite. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb diets, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Portugal with Mom’s Portuguese Beef Stew!
