Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate

Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate Recipe from Guinea with Garlic, Tomatoes, and Thyme

Region / culture: Guinea | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate, or Beef in Tomato Sauce, is a classic dish that combines tender pieces of beef with a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. This dish is a staple in many cuisines around the world, known for its comforting and hearty nature. It's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delicious way to enjoy beef with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes and aromatic herbs.

History

The origins of Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate can be traced back to European cuisine, particularly French and Italian culinary traditions, where tomato-based sauces have been a cornerstone for centuries. Over time, variations of this dish have spread globally, adapting to local tastes and available ingredients. Each version reflects the unique culinary heritage of its region, making Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate a versatile and universally loved recipe.

Ingredients

1 kg stew meat
1 clove of garlic
1 can of peeled tomatoes
3 tbsp of oil
1 onion
thyme, salt, piment, parsley

How to prepare

Wash the meat and cut it into pieces.
Place the meat in a pot with some salted water.
Cook for at least one hour.
Separate the juice from the meat.
Heat oil in another saucepan.
Brown the meat.
Add garlic, onion, and tomatoes.
Mix well.
Add the reserved juice and seasonings.
Let it simmer for an hour and a half.
Serve with plantains, mashed bananas, or cassava.

Variations

Consider adding red wine to the sauce for a richer flavor, or incorporate vegetables like carrots and celery for added nutrition and texture. For a spicier version, a dash of chili flakes can elevate the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use high-quality stew meat and fresh tomatoes if possible. Browning the meat before adding it to the sauce adds depth of flavor. Slow cooking is key to tenderizing the beef and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Don't rush the simmering process, as this is when the magic happens.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. For a low-carb option, serve with steamed vegetables or cauliflower mash.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking or braising the beef ensures it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. For those short on time, a pressure cooker can achieve similar results in a fraction of the time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh tomatoes are not available, tomato paste or sauce can be used as a substitute. For a different protein option, chicken or pork can replace beef.

Make Ahead Tips

Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply reheat on the stove or in a microwave.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dish in a deep, wide bowl to showcase the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or a Chianti, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the beef and tomato sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a hearty yet moderate option for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source coming from the tomatoes. One serving of Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate contains approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those on a low-carb diet.

Fats

The fat content in Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate can vary depending on the cut of beef used. On average, a serving contains about 15-20 grams of fat. Using leaner cuts of beef and draining excess oil after browning can help reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A serving of Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate provides roughly 30-35 grams of protein, contributing significantly to daily protein requirements.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the tomatoes, which are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene. Beef contributes iron, zinc, and B vitamins, making Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate a nutritious meal option.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific food sensitivities should review all ingredients to ensure they meet their dietary needs.

Summary

Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate is a balanced dish, offering a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients with moderate calories and low carbohydrates. It's a wholesome choice for a nutritious meal.

Summary

Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate is a timeless dish that combines the richness of beef with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. With its rich nutritional profile and comforting flavors, it's a perfect meal for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Marie in her quaint little kitchen. The aroma of simmering tomatoes and tender beef filled the air, and I could hardly contain my excitement as she handed me a small scrap of paper with the recipe written in faded ink.

Marie had learned the recipe from her mother, who had learned it from her own mother before her. It was a traditional family recipe that had been passed down through the generations, and I felt honored to be entrusted with its secrets.

As I read through the recipe, my mouth watered at the thought of the rich, savory flavors that would soon grace my taste buds. The ingredients were simple yet elegant - tender beef, ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of red wine to add depth and complexity to the sauce.

I watched intently as Marie expertly browned the beef in a hot skillet, filling the kitchen with the tantalizing scent of seared meat. She then added the tomatoes, herbs, and wine, allowing the ingredients to meld together in perfect harmony.

As the sauce simmered on the stove, Marie shared stories of her childhood spent in the French countryside, where her mother would spend hours in the kitchen, lovingly preparing meals for her family. She spoke of the joy and comfort that food brought to their home, and I felt a deep sense of nostalgia for a time and a place that I had never known.

Finally, after hours of simmering and stirring, the Boeuf à la Sauce Tomate was ready. The beef was tender and succulent, the sauce thick and rich with layers of flavor. I took my first bite and was transported to a world of warmth and comfort, a world where food was not just sustenance but a celebration of life and love.

I knew in that moment that this recipe would become a treasured part of my own culinary repertoire. Over the years, I have made it countless times for family and friends, each time adding my own little twist to make it my own.

But no matter how many times I make it, the taste of that first bite will always remind me of my dear friend Marie and the simple yet profound joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. And for that, I am forever grateful.