Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes I

Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes I Recipe

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes I

The Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of beef with the earthy tones of greens and the comforting texture of red potatoes. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate a meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of spices and vegetables brings out the best in the beef, making it a favorite among those who try it.

History

The origins of this recipe can be traced back to rustic cooking traditions, where one-pot meals were favored for their simplicity and depth of flavor. This particular combination of beef, greens, and potatoes is reminiscent of many cultural dishes that aim to provide a balanced meal, utilizing whatever ingredients were readily available. Over time, it has evolved into the recipe we know today, with a specific blend of spices to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) top round beef
1 tbsp paprika
1.5 tsp oregano
0.5 tsp chili powder
0.25 tsp garlic powder
0.25 tsp black pepper
0.13 tsp red pepper
0.13 tsp dry mustard
8 red-skinned potatoes, halved
3 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cup beef broth
2 cloves large garlic, minced
2 large carrots, peeled, cut into very thin, 2.5 inches strips
2 bunch (0.5 lb (227 g)) mustard greens, kale, or turnip greens, stems removed, coarsely torn
as needed non-stick cooking spray

How to prepare

Partially freeze the beef. Thinly slice it across the grain into long strips that are 0.13 inch thick and 3 inches wide.
Combine paprika, oregano, chili powder, garlic powder, black pepper, red pepper, and dry mustard. Coat the strips of meat with the spice mixture.
Spray a large, heavy skillet with nonstick coating. Preheat the pan over high heat. Add the meat and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes. Then add the potatoes, onion, broth, and garlic, and cook covered over medium heat for 20 minutes. Stir in the carrots, lay the greens over the top, and cook covered until the carrots are tender, about 15 minutes.
Serve in a large serving bowl with crusty bread for dunking.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, try substituting sweet potatoes for the red potatoes for a different flavor profile and additional nutrients. Adding mushrooms or bell peppers can also enhance the dish with new textures and flavors.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, it's crucial to slice it thinly against the grain. Partially freezing the beef beforehand makes this process easier. Additionally, using a heavy skillet is key to achieving a good sear on the meat and vegetables, which locks in flavors. Don't rush the cooking process; allow the dish to simmer as directed to fully meld the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, directly from the skillet. Accompany it with crusty bread for dunking into the flavorful broth. A side salad or a simple vinaigrette-dressed arugula can add a fresh, peppery contrast to the hearty meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the searing of the beef, which locks in flavors and adds a rich color to the meat. Slow simmering of the vegetables in the broth allows them to soften and absorb the spices, creating a deep, complex flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions

If top round beef is not available, flank steak or sirloin can be used as alternatives. For a vegetarian version, portobello mushrooms can replace the beef, though cooking times may need to be adjusted.

Make Ahead Tips

The beef can be sliced and coated with the spice mixture a day in advance, stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The vegetables can also be prepped ahead of time, making the cooking process quicker and more efficient.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dish in a large, deep serving bowl to showcase the colorful layers of beef, potatoes, and greens. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a touch of color and added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef and spices. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the meal's hearty nature.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a little broth or water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this dish contains about 300-400 calories, making it a suitable main course for those managing their calorie intake. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a good balance of carbohydrates, primarily from the red potatoes and onions. One serving contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a moderate carbohydrate diet. The fiber from the vegetables also aids in digestion and provides a slow release of energy.

Fats

The lean top round beef used in this recipe keeps the fat content relatively low, with most of the fats being unsaturated and beneficial to heart health. The total fat content per serving is around 10-15 grams, depending on the specific cuts of beef used and the amount of non-cooking spray applied.

Proteins

Protein is a standout nutrient in this dish, with each serving providing approximately 25-30 grams. The high-quality protein from the beef supports muscle repair and growth, making this meal an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or increase muscle mass.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables included. The greens are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. The carrots add beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. The potatoes contribute vitamin C and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is free from most common allergens, including dairy, nuts, and gluten. However, those with specific food sensitivities should verify the ingredients of the beef broth used, as some brands may contain allergens or additives.

Summary

Overall, the Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes is a nutritious, balanced meal that provides a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a wholesome choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish.

Summary

The Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes is a nourishing, flavorful dish that combines quality protein, wholesome carbohydrates, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Its rich history and versatility make it a beloved recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal to share with family or a nutritious dish to fuel your body, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes. It was a cold winter day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my grandmother. As I turned the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out, revealing a handwritten recipe that caught my eye.

The recipe was for a hearty dish that combined tender beef, leafy greens, and flavorful red potatoes all cooked together in a cast-iron skillet. It seemed like the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.

I carefully read through the ingredients and instructions, noting the use of simple seasonings like garlic, onion, and paprika to enhance the flavors of the dish. The recipe called for browning the beef in the skillet before adding in the vegetables and potatoes, creating a delicious one-pan meal that would be both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Excited to try out this new recipe, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work in the kitchen. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me as I chopped the onions, minced the garlic, and seasoned the beef with a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper.

As the aroma of sizzling beef and onions filled the air, I added in the greens and potatoes, watching as they cooked down and absorbed the savory flavors of the dish. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire, just as it had been for my grandmother.

When the dish was finally ready, I scooped it onto a plate and took my first bite. The beef was tender and juicy, the greens were perfectly wilted, and the red potatoes added a comforting starchiness to the meal. It was everything I had hoped for and more, a true taste of home that brought back memories of family dinners and shared meals.

From that day on, Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes became a regular feature on my dinner table. I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of good food and good company that had been a cornerstone of my own upbringing.

Over the years, I continued to make this dish, refining the recipe and adding my own twists and variations to suit my tastes. But no matter how many times I cooked it, the basic elements of the dish remained the same, a comforting blend of beef, greens, and potatoes that never failed to satisfy.

As I look back on that day when I first discovered the recipe for Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. From my grandmother's old cookbook to my own kitchen, the tradition of good food and good company lives on, one delicious meal at a time.