Zimbabwean-style Beef Stew

Ingredients

While the original Filipino Lauya is a simple and comforting beef stew, the Zimbabwean-style Beef Stew incorporates distinct flavors and spices from Zimbabwean cuisine. The original Lauya typically includes ingredients like beef, onions, garlic, and fish sauce, while the Zimbabwean version incorporates a unique blend of spices such as paprika, cumin, and coriander. Additionally, the Zimbabwean stew is traditionally served with sadza, a cornmeal porridge, instead of rice. We alse have the original recipe for Lauya, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) beef, cubed 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) beef, cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 can diced tomatoes (400g / 14 oz) 1 can diced tomatoes (400g / 14 oz)
• 4 cups (950ml) beef broth 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
• 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): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 6g
• Protein: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until they become translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides.
4. 4.
   Stir in the paprika, cumin, coriander, thyme, and bay leaves, ensuring the beef is well coated with the spices.
5. 5.
   Add the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
7. 7.
   Remove the bay leaves from the stew before serving.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with sadza or your preferred side dish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — Choose a tender cut of beef, such as chuck or stewing beef, for the best results. Trim any excess fat before cubing the meat to ensure a leaner stew.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the stew.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables in the stew according to your preference. You can add green beans, peas, or butternut squash for extra variety.

Serving advice

Serve the Zimbabwean-style Beef Stew hot with a generous portion of sadza, a traditional cornmeal porridge. The sadza acts as the perfect accompaniment, soaking up the flavorful gravy and adding a comforting element to the meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve it in a deep bowl, allowing the vibrant colors of the vegetables and the rich gravy to shine through.