Demikát with a Twist

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef chuck, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) beef chuck, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 250ml (1 cup) beef broth 250ml (1 cup) beef broth
• 250ml (1 cup) heavy cream 250ml (1 cup) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 16g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the beef cubes, paprika, caraway seeds, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the meat is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the marinated beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
5. 5.
   Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. 6.
   Return the browned beef cubes to the pot and add the heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the Demikát simmer for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
8. 8.
   Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9.
   Serve the Demikát hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef chuck — Choose a well-marbled cut of beef chuck for maximum tenderness. Trim any excess fat before cubing.
• Caraway seeds — Toast the caraway seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before using.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce during the simmering process.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the Demikát during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Serve the Demikát with a side of Czech bread dumplings or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Demikát hot, accompanied by Czech bread dumplings or creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Presentation advice

Plate the Demikát with care, ensuring that the meat is showcased alongside the creamy sauce. Drizzle a little extra sauce over the top and sprinkle with fresh parsley for an elegant touch.