Quick Galician Stew

Galician Stew Recipe from Spain with Chorizo and Ham

Region / culture: Spain, Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Galician stew, also known as "Caldo Gallego," is a traditional Spanish dish that originated in the region of Galicia. This hearty and flavorful stew is a popular comfort food in Spain, especially during the colder months. Made with a combination of meats, vegetables, and beans, Galician stew is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd.

History

Galician stew has been a staple in Galician cuisine for centuries. Originally a peasant dish, this stew was created as a way to make use of whatever ingredients were readily available. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been passed down through generations, becoming a beloved traditional dish in Spain.

Ingredients

0.5 tsp canola oil
1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 oz (113 g) chorizo, cubed
4 oz (113 g) low-fat ham, cubed
0.5 lb (227 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
0.5 lb (227 g) beef stew meat, cubed
6 cups water
0.25 cup chopped celery
1 lb (454 g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 (15 oz (425 g)) cans white navy beans with liquid
0.5 lb (227 g) cabbage, cut into chunks
0.25 tsp black pepper

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large stockpot and brown the onion, garlic, and meats for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for 30 minutes.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or chickpeas, for a unique twist.
Experiment with different meats, such as pork or lamb, for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor to the stew, consider using smoked chorizo or ham.

- For a thicker stew, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.

- For a vegetarian version of the stew, simply omit the meats and use vegetable broth instead of water.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Galician stew hot with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meats and vegetables before adding the liquid will help to develop rich flavors in the stew.

- Simmering the stew over low heat for an extended period of time will allow the flavors to meld together and create a delicious final dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of canola oil for a healthier option.

- Substitute kale or spinach for the cabbage for a different texture and taste.

- Use turkey sausage or tofu in place of chorizo for a vegetarian version of the stew.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve Galician stew in individual bowls garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme or a dollop of sour cream. For a rustic presentation, serve the stew in a bread bowl.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Galician stew with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. A glass of Spanish red wine or a cold beer would also complement the flavors of the stew nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Galician stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 350

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 45g

Dietary Fiber: 10g

Sugars: 3g

Fats

Total Fat: 12g

Saturated Fat: 4g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

Vitamin C: 30%

Calcium: 10%

Iron: 20%

Alergens

Contains: Soy

Summary

Galician stew is a nutritious and balanced meal that is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a hearty dish that is sure to satisfy your hunger and keep you feeling full and energized.

Summary

Galician stew is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold day. Made with a combination of meats, vegetables, and beans, this traditional Spanish stew is a nutritious and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy a bowl of Galician stew with a side of crusty bread and a glass of wine for a comforting and delicious dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Quick Galician Stew. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, and I always loved to watch her work her magic with ingredients. On that particular day, she was preparing a traditional Galician stew that she had learned from her own grandmother.

As Maria bustled around the kitchen, chopping vegetables and stirring pots on the stove, I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe. She smiled warmly and handed me a tattered old cookbook that had been passed down through her family for generations. The pages were yellowed and worn, but the recipes inside were a treasure trove of traditional Galician dishes.

I eagerly flipped through the pages until I found the recipe for Quick Galician Stew. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the rich flavors and hearty goodness of the dish. It called for tender chunks of beef, potatoes, onions, garlic, and a medley of fragrant spices. The recipe was simple and straightforward, yet I knew that the end result would be nothing short of spectacular.

Maria watched me with a twinkle in her eye as I studied the recipe, her hands deftly working the ingredients into a delicious-smelling stew. She had a way of making even the most complicated dishes seem effortless, and I knew that I had much to learn from her.

After tasting a spoonful of the stew, I knew that I had to recreate this dish in my own kitchen. I carefully copied down the recipe, making notes and adjustments based on Maria's expert advice. As I left her home that day, I felt inspired and excited to try my hand at making Quick Galician Stew for my own family.

Back in my own kitchen, I gathered the ingredients and set to work following the recipe to the letter. The scent of onions and garlic sizzling in olive oil filled the air, and I could feel the warmth and comfort of the dish enveloping me. As the stew simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but smile at the thought of sharing this delicious meal with my loved ones.

When the time came to serve the stew, I ladled generous portions into bowls and watched as my family eagerly dug in. The flavors were rich and savory, the beef tender and flavorful, and the potatoes melt-in-your-mouth delicious. With each bite, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction knowing that I had created something truly special.

Over the years, I have continued to make Quick Galician Stew for my family and friends, each time adding my own personal touch and flair to the recipe. I have shared it with neighbors, co-workers, and even strangers who have become friends through the joy of good food.

As I look back on that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, I am grateful for the gift of that recipe and the inspiration it has brought to my cooking. I have learned that the true joy of cooking lies not just in the flavors and aromas of the dish, but in the memories and stories that accompany each recipe.

And so, I will continue to cook and share Quick Galician Stew with those I hold dear, passing on the tradition and love that is woven into every spoonful of this delicious dish. For in the kitchen, as in life, the best recipes are those that are shared with love and joy.