Rhenish-Hessian Beef Stew

Ingredients

The Rhenish-Hessian adaptation of the Mexican Olla de carne incorporates the unique flavors and ingredients of the Rhenish-Hessian cuisine. The original dish is transformed by using regional spices, such as caraway seeds and juniper berries, which add a distinct earthy flavor. Additionally, the Rhenish-Hessian version includes local root vegetables like turnips and parsnips, giving the stew a hearty and comforting character. We alse have the original recipe for Olla de carne, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) beef chuck, cut into cubes 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) beef chuck, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 onions, chopped 2 onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 turnips, peeled and diced 2 turnips, peeled and diced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and diced 2 parsnips, peeled and diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon juniper berries 1 teaspoon juniper berries
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 liter (4 cups) beef broth 1 liter (4 cups) beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 6g
• Protein: 45g
• 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 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 carrots, turnips, parsnips, and potatoes.
5. 5.
   Add the bay leaves, caraway seeds, juniper berries, dried thyme, and paprika to the pot.
6. 6.
   Pour in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper.
7. 7.
   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
8. 8.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. 9.
   Serve the Rhenish-Hessian Beef Stew hot with crusty bread or potatoes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef chuck — For the best results, choose well-marbled beef chuck as it will become tender and flavorful during the slow cooking process.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra depth of flavor, marinate the beef cubes in red wine and herbs overnight before cooking.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of flour with water and add it to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving advice

Serve the Rhenish-Hessian Beef Stew in deep bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread or boiled potatoes to soak up the delicious broth.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, place a sprig of fresh thyme or a juniper berry on top of each serving. Serve the stew in rustic ceramic bowls for a cozy and inviting look.