Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying dinner that's both healthy and easy to make? Look no further! This sweet potato and beef recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend dinner. The combination of tender beef, earthy sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices creates a truly unforgettable flavor experience. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish without requiring hours in the kitchen. This recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a rich flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes.
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Combine ingredients: Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the sweet potatoes are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This hearty stew is perfect on its own or served over rice or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, you can brown the sweet potatoes lightly before adding them to the pot.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini, to customize this recipe to your liking. Experiment with different vegetable combinations to create your own unique twist.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Potato and Beef: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Slow Cooker Version: This recipe works wonderfully in a slow cooker! Simply brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This sweet potato and beef recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, combining healthy ingredients for a nutritious and flavorful outcome. Enjoy!