Moldovan Beef Stew with Vegetables

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Carbonada Criolla to Moldovan cuisine, we have made a few changes to suit the local flavors and ingredients. We have replaced some of the original ingredients with Moldovan staples such as potatoes and bell peppers. Additionally, we have incorporated traditional Moldovan spices like paprika to enhance the flavor profile of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Carbonada Criolla, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef stew meat, cubed 500g (1.1 lb) beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 bell peppers, diced 2 bell peppers, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Return the beef to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Remove the bay leaves before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Moldovan Beef Stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef stew meat — For a more tender result, choose a cut of beef that is suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck or brisket.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can marinate the beef cubes in a mixture of paprika, garlic, and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
• For a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of flour with a little water and add it to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving advice

Serve the Moldovan Beef Stew with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.