Beef in Cumin Sauce

Beef in Cumin Sauce Recipe from South Africa

Region / culture: South Africa | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef in Cumin Sauce is a robust and flavorful dish that combines tender pieces of beef with a rich, aromatic sauce made from tomatoes, cumin, and a blend of other spices. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the depth of flavor that cumin and other spices can bring to a dish. The addition of garlic, onions, and chile pepper adds layers of flavor that make this dish unforgettable. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal to serve at a family dinner or a special dish to impress guests, Beef in Cumin Sauce is sure to satisfy.

History

The origins of Beef in Cumin Sauce can be traced back to various culinary traditions that heavily rely on spices to flavor their dishes. Cumin, in particular, has been used for thousands of years in different cultures around the world, including in Middle Eastern, African, and Latin American cuisines. This recipe is a fusion of these rich culinary traditions, bringing together the warmth of cumin and the tanginess of tomatoes to create a dish that is both comforting and exotic.

Ingredients

1 – 2 lb (907 g) of stew meat, cut into large bite-sized pieces
2 – 3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 onions, finely chopped
juice of 2 limes or lemons, and/or a tablespoon of vinegar
1 chile pepper, cleaned and chopped
3 – 4 tomatoes, chopped (or canned tomatoes)
2 cans of tomato paste
3 – 4 tsp of cumin
African hot sauce, or cayenne pepper or red pepper to taste
black pepper to taste
salt to taste
several mint leaves (optional)

How to prepare

In a large pot, bring the meat to a boil in one inch of water. Cover the pot and reduce the heat.
While the meat is cooking, prepare the sauce by combining all the remaining ingredients in a separate pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and then turn off the heat.
Add the sauce to the meat and let it simmer until the meat is fully cooked. Continue simmering for a little longer.
Serve the dish with Baton de Manioc / Chikwangue or Fufu.

Variations

For a spicier version, increase the amount of chile pepper or add a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also add vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, it's important to simmer it slowly and give it enough time to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Using a cut of meat that is suitable for stewing, such as chuck or brisket, will yield the best results. Browning the meat before adding it to the sauce can also add depth to the dish's flavor. Additionally, toasting the cumin before adding it to the sauce can enhance its aroma and taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is traditionally served with Baton de Manioc / Chikwangue or Fufu, but it can also be served with rice, couscous, or bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Slow simmering is key to developing the flavors in this dish. Using a heavy-bottomed pot can help distribute the heat evenly and prevent the sauce from burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cumin is not available, coriander or garam masala can be used as substitutes. For a non-beef version, chicken or lamb can be used.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh mint leaves or chopped cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Serving it in a clay pot can also enhance the rustic appeal of the dish.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust red wine or a cold beer can complement the rich flavors of the beef and spices. For a non-alcoholic option, a spiced tea or a tangy lemonade would be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Beef in Cumin Sauce is estimated to contain around 300-400 calories, making it a hearty and nutritious option for a main meal.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the onions and tomatoes. Depending on the serving size, each portion may contain approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fat content in this recipe will largely depend on the cut of beef used. Choosing a leaner cut can reduce the overall fat content, but even with a fattier cut, the fat can be skimmed off the top of the sauce after cooking if desired. The total fat content per serving is estimated to be around 10-20 grams, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Proteins

Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A serving of this dish can provide approximately 25-30 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-building option for a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes, vitamin B6, and iron from the beef. The addition of garlic and onions also contributes to the intake of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific food sensitivities should review the ingredients list carefully and make adjustments as necessary.

Summary

Overall, Beef in Cumin Sauce is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty meal that can fit into a balanced diet.

Summary

Beef in Cumin Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender beef with a rich, spiced tomato sauce. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether served for a simple family meal or a special occasion, it's sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Beef in Cumin Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria's house for a casual lunch. As soon as I entered her kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma of spices and herbs. Maria was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling sauce that filled the room with its rich and savory scent.

"What are you making, Maria?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity.

"It's a family recipe for Beef in Cumin Sauce," she replied with a smile. "My grandmother taught me how to make it, and now I'm passing it on to you."

I watched in awe as Maria expertly seasoned the beef with cumin, garlic, and other aromatic spices. The sauce simmered slowly, thickening and developing a deep, complex flavor that made my mouth water. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

Over the next few weeks, I visited Maria's house regularly, helping her cook and absorbing every detail of the recipe. I learned how to toast the cumin seeds until they released their warm, earthy scent, and how to grind them into a fine powder that would infuse the sauce with its distinctive flavor. I discovered the perfect balance of spices and herbs that would make the beef tender and succulent, and the sauce rich and velvety.

As I practiced making Beef in Cumin Sauce on my own, I started adding my own twists and variations to the recipe. I experimented with different cuts of beef, adjusting the cooking time and temperature to achieve the perfect level of tenderness. I played around with the spices, adding a dash of cinnamon here, a pinch of paprika there, until I found the perfect blend that suited my taste.

With each batch of Beef in Cumin Sauce that I made, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction and pride. I loved how the dish brought back memories of my time in Maria's kitchen, and how it connected me to the generations of women who had cooked before me. I cherished the moments spent sharing this recipe with my family and friends, watching their faces light up as they took their first bite and savored the complex flavors.

As the years passed, I continued to refine and perfect my recipe for Beef in Cumin Sauce, adding new ingredients and techniques that elevated the dish to new heights. I shared the recipe with anyone who was interested, passing on the knowledge and love that had been handed down to me by Maria.

Now, whenever I make Beef in Cumin Sauce, I feel a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the journey that brought me to this point. I am proud to carry on the tradition of cooking and sharing this beloved recipe, knowing that it will continue to bring joy and nourishment to those who taste it.

And as I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Beef in Cumin Sauce, surrounded by my loved ones and the memories of all the cooks who came before me, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and create new memories for the future. Cooking is not just about following a recipe - it is about honoring our heritage, celebrating our culture, and sharing our love with those we hold dear. And for that, I am forever grateful.