Craving a comforting and flavorful meal that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than Beef Afritada! This beloved Filipino dish is a delicious stew brimming with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and a rich, savory sauce. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or white)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step helps to develop a rich flavor in the stew. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmering the Beef
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the potatoes, carrots, and bay leaves. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Step 6: Serving
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice. This delicious and healthy meal is perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Afritada:
- For extra tender beef, consider using a pressure cooker. The cooking time will be significantly reduced.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the beef. Work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more beef broth or water to adjust the consistency.
- For a sweeter version, increase the brown sugar to your liking.
Variations:
- Chicken Afritada: Substitute the beef with 1.5 lbs of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a lighter version of this dish. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Spicy Afritada: Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25g
This Beef Afritada recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious dish that's perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy!