Meat Stew

Meat Stew Recipe from Sierra Leone - A Hearty and Delicious Dish for Meat Lovers

Region / culture: Sierra Leone | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Meat stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day. This recipe is a classic that has been enjoyed by many for generations. The combination of tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth makes this stew a favorite among many.

History

Meat stew has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is a dish that has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe. The origins of meat stew can be traced back to ancient times when people would cook meat and vegetables together in a pot over an open flame. Over time, different ingredients and cooking techniques were introduced, resulting in the delicious and comforting dish we know today.

Ingredients

750 g of meat (depending on the number of persons)
1 large onion
6 garden eggs / aubergines (eggplant)
20 g of tomato purée
1.5 liters of water
3 fresh tomatoes
salt and (chile) pepper to taste

How to prepare

Trim, wash, and cut the meat into small pieces, and place them in a pot.
Add water and some salt, and let it boil for about 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the garden vegetables and pepper.
Cook on low heat until the vegetables are tender.
Slice the onion and tomatoes into small pieces and add them to the soup.
Allow the soup to simmer.
Remove the cooked vegetables, grind/blend them with water, and strain the mixture.
Return the vegetables to the soup, and add the tomato purée.
Allow the soup to simmer on low heat until the meat is tender.
Serve with rice or root vegetables such as cassava, yam, or potatoes (sweet or "Irish").

Variations

Add different vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of meat such as chicken, beef, or lamb for a different twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a richer flavor, brown the meat before adding it to the pot.

- Use a combination of different vegetables to add depth and texture to the stew.

- Add herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves for extra flavor.

- Allow the stew to simmer on low heat for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the meat stew with rice or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the stew on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Blend the cooked vegetables for a smoother and thicker broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use different types of meat or vegetables based on personal preference.

- Substitute tomato purée with diced tomatoes or tomato sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the meat stew in a bowl garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this meat stew with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This stew is rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron, and Potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This meat stew is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a comforting meal.

Summary

Meat stew is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy this hearty and delicious stew with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Meat Stew. It was a dreary day in the middle of winter, and I was feeling a bit down. I decided to rummage through my old recipe box in search of something comforting to cook. And there it was, tucked away in a pile of index cards, a faded and stained piece of paper with the words "Grandma's Famous Meat Stew" scrawled across the top.

I couldn't help but smile as I held the recipe in my hands. I had grown up watching my own grandmother make this stew countless times, filling our home with the most delicious aromas. It was a dish that brought our family together, warming our hearts and bellies on cold winter nights.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories of my grandmother flooded back to me. She was a remarkable cook, always in the kitchen whipping up something delicious. I can still picture her standing over the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling stew with a look of pure contentment on her face.

I remember asking her once how she learned to make such a wonderful dish, and she simply smiled and said, "Oh, I've been making this stew for as long as I can remember. It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

I knew then that I had to learn how to make this stew myself. So, I spent hours by my grandmother's side, watching and helping as she worked her magic in the kitchen. I learned how to brown the meat just right, how to sauté the vegetables until they were tender, and how to let the stew simmer for hours until it was rich and flavorful.

But the most important lesson my grandmother taught me was to cook with love. She always said that the secret ingredient in any recipe was the love and care you put into it. And I could feel that love in every bite of her Meat Stew.

As I gathered the ingredients and began to cook, I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through each step. I browned the meat until it was golden and crispy, just like she had shown me. I added the onions, carrots, and potatoes, letting them sizzle and release their savory aromas.

I poured in the broth and spices, stirring everything together with a sense of purpose and determination. I knew that this stew would be more than just a meal; it would be a tribute to my grandmother and all the love she had poured into her cooking over the years.

As the stew simmered on the stove, filling my home with the most wonderful smells, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I was carrying on a tradition that had been handed down through generations, honoring the women who had come before me.

When the stew was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and brought them to the table. My family gathered around, their faces lighting up with anticipation. And as they took their first bites, I could see the same joy and satisfaction that I had felt when I first discovered the recipe.

As we ate, the conversation flowed freely, laughter ringing through the air. I knew that my grandmother was there with us in spirit, smiling down on our little gathering. And in that moment, I realized that her legacy would live on through me and the meals I cooked for my loved ones.

So, as I sit here now, writing down the story of how I learned to make Meat Stew, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking that my grandmother passed on to me. It is a gift that has brought me endless joy and satisfaction, filling my home with warmth and love.

And as I look forward to many more years of cooking and sharing meals with my family, I know that my grandmother's spirit will always be there, guiding me every step of the way. And for that, I am truly blessed.