Basque-inspired Beef Stew with Rice Noodles

Ingredients

In this Basque-inspired adaptation, we have replaced the traditional Pho broth with a rich and flavorful Basque-style broth. The spices used in the original Pho recipe have been substituted with Basque spices like paprika, garlic, and bay leaves. Additionally, instead of using traditional Pho noodles, we have opted for rice noodles to add a unique texture to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pho, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef stew meat, cubed 500g (1.1 lb) beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups (950ml) beef broth 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 200g (7 oz) rice noodles 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), for garnish Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
2. 2.
   Add the beef stew meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Stir in the paprika and bay leaves, and cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
4. 4.
   Pour in the beef broth and water, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. 5.
   While the stew is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   Once the beef is tender, season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the Basque-inspired beef stew over the noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef stew meat — For a more tender result, choose cuts like chuck or brisket and ensure they are properly cubed before cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stew.
• Customize the garnishes by adding sliced jalapenos, bean sprouts, or thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch and freshness.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the simmering stew to thicken the broth.

Serving advice

Serve the Basque-inspired Beef Stew with Rice Noodles hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Provide lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the stew to enhance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the Basque-inspired Beef Stew with Rice Noodles in individual bowls, with the rice noodles at the bottom and the beef stew ladled over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.