Slovenian Beef Stew with Paprika - Bograč

Ingredients

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef, cut into cubes 1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 red bell peppers, diced 2 red bell peppers, diced
• 2 green bell peppers, diced 2 green bell peppers, diced
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for extra heat) 1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 500 ml (2 cups) beef broth 500 ml (2 cups) beef broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 6g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
4. 4.
   Stir in the sweet paprika and hot paprika (if using), coating the meat evenly.
5. 5.
   Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth to the pot, stirring well.
6. 6.
   Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef becomes tender.
7. 7.
   Add the diced bell peppers, potatoes, and carrots to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
8. 8.
   Continue simmering for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.
9. 9.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. 10.
    Serve the Bograč hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — Choose a tender cut suitable for stewing, such as chuck or stewing beef. Trim any excess fat before cubing.
• Paprika — Opt for high-quality sweet and hot paprika to achieve the authentic Slovenian flavor profile.
• Potatoes — Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape better during cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, marinate the beef cubes in paprika, garlic, and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
• Adjust the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot paprika.
• Serve the Bograč with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.
• This stew tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance.
• Pair the Bograč with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Bograč in deep bowls, allowing the flavors to meld together. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread or polenta for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Bograč with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in rustic earthenware bowls to enhance the traditional Slovenian aesthetic.