Croatian Beef Stew with Prunes
The Adriatic marvel, Croatian cuisine, is a delightful fusion of flavors, a medley of hearty, rustic, and luscious tastes drawn from both the inland and the coastal regions of this Southern European jewel. Today, we delve into a Croatian Beef Stew, a delightful main course that impeccably combines the depth of Southern European cuisine with the rich flavors of beef, accentuated by the sweetness of prunes and the vibrant notes of a robust red wine. This dish is not just a meal, but a celebration of flavors that dance harmoniously, transporting you and your dining companion to the scenic coastal towns of Croatia, with every delectable bite.
Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert, Preparation Time: 20 minutes, Cooking Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
- 400 grams beef
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 250 ml red wine
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 8 prunes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, from Southern European cuisine ingredients)
Method
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over a medium flame. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until golden and fragrant.
- Introduce the beef to the pot, searing until browned on all sides. This creates a foundational depth of flavor essential to Croatian cuisine.
- Stir in the carrots, and cook for a further 5 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine, allowing it to deglaze the pot and infuse into the beef.
- Mix in the vinegar, tomato paste, cloves, bay leaves, and prunes. Season with salt and pepper, to your taste.
- Reduce the heat to low, covering the pot and allowing the stew to simmer for 90 minutes to 2 hours. Stir occasionally, and ensure the beef becomes tender, and the flavors meld into a rich, harmonious stew.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Tips
- For a deeper flavor, prepare the stew a day in advance and allow it to rest. Reheat it gently before serving.
- The stew pairs beautifully with a rustic crusty bread or a side of creamy mashed potatoes.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Element | Per 100g | Per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Energy (calories) | 150 | 650 |
| Energy (kJ) | 628 | 2725 |
| Fat (g) | 8 | 35 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 3 | 13 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 8 | 35 |
| Sugars (g) | 4 | 18 |
| Proteins (g) | 13 | 57 |
| Salt (g) | 1 | 4.5 |
