Potatoes with Beef

Potatoes with Beef Recipe from Romania - Ingredients: beef, lard, onions, potatoes, tomato paste, paprika, salt, thyme

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Potatoes with beef is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe combines tender beef with flavorful potatoes in a rich and savory sauce that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

Potatoes with beef is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations in many cultures around the world. It is a simple and affordable meal that is easy to prepare and can be customized with different seasonings and ingredients.

Ingredients

1 lb / 500 g beef
2 tbsp lard
2 – 3 onions
1 lb / 500 g potatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp paprika
salt
a little thyme (optional)

How to prepare

Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces, season with salt, and fry in lard.
Once the meat starts to brown, add the finely chopped raw onion or fry the onion until it turns yellow.
Pour enough water to cover the meat.
Cover the pot and let it boil over low heat until the meat is almost tender.
Next, add the tomato paste, paprika, more salt, a pinch of thyme, and the halved or quartered potatoes (depending on their size).
If needed, add more water to ensure the ingredients are covered.
Continue boiling over low heat until the potatoes are cooked and the liquid has reduced almost completely.

Variations

Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.
Try using different cuts of beef, such as stew meat or ground beef, for a unique texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the beef into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Browning the meat before adding the onions will help to develop a rich flavor in the dish.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less salt, paprika, and thyme.

- Be sure to check the potatoes periodically to ensure they are cooked through but not mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve potatoes with beef with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and nutritious meal.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a combination of frying and boiling to cook the beef and potatoes until tender and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute olive oil for lard for a healthier option.

- Use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different variation of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Potatoes with beef can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish potatoes with beef with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve potatoes with beef with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of potatoes with beef in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of potatoes with beef contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of potatoes with beef contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of potatoes with beef contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of potatoes with beef contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins. Beef is rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains beef and lard, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please check for any food allergies before consuming.

Summary

Potatoes with beef is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Potatoes with beef is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. With tender beef, flavorful potatoes, and a rich sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Potatoes with Beef. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My mother had invited our neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, over for dinner one evening. Mrs. Jenkins was known in the village for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I was always eager to learn new recipes from her.

As I watched Mrs. Jenkins prepare the Potatoes with Beef that evening, I was mesmerized by the way she effortlessly chopped the vegetables, seasoned the meat, and cooked everything together in a large pot. The tantalizing aroma that filled our kitchen made my mouth water, and I couldn't wait to try the dish.

After dinner, I asked Mrs. Jenkins for the recipe, and she was more than happy to share it with me. She explained each step in detail, from selecting the best cuts of beef to the perfect seasoning for the potatoes. I took notes eagerly, determined to recreate the dish for my own family one day.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe for Potatoes with Beef, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I cooked for my family every night, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to create new and exciting dishes. My children grew up enjoying my home-cooked meals, and they often brought their friends over to taste my creations.

As I grew older, I continued to cook for my family, always eager to try new recipes and expand my culinary skills. I joined a cooking club in the village, where I met other passionate home cooks who shared their own recipes and techniques with me. I learned to make traditional dishes from different cultures, as well as modern twists on classic recipes.

One day, I was invited to a cooking competition in the neighboring town. I decided to enter my Potatoes with Beef recipe, confident that it would impress the judges with its flavors and presentation. As I cooked in the competition, I felt a sense of pride and passion that I hadn't experienced in years. The judges were amazed by my dish, and I was awarded first place in the competition.

From that day on, I became known as the best cook in the village. People from far and wide would come to taste my Potatoes with Beef and other dishes, eager to experience the flavors and aromas that I had perfected over the years. I shared my recipes with anyone who asked, always happy to pass on the knowledge and techniques that I had acquired.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the smells of herbs and spices, I can't help but smile as I remember the first time I saw the recipe for Potatoes with Beef. It has been a journey of passion and dedication, of learning and growing, and I am grateful for every moment that has brought me to this point. Cooking has been my love and my life, and I will continue to share my recipes and my stories with anyone who is willing to listen.