Croatian Beef Stew with Prunes Recipe

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