So'O-Yosopy

So'O-Yosopy Recipe - A Delicious Paraguayan Dish

Region / culture: Paraguay | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

So'O-Yosopy is a traditional dish from the Central African Republic that is made with ground lean round steak, onions, hot peppers, tomatoes, vermicelli, and grated parmesan cheese. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a comforting meal.

History

So'O-Yosopy has been a staple in Central African cuisine for generations. It is a dish that is often made for special occasions and family gatherings. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and noodles or rice creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of ground lean sirloin or round steak
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
2 medium onions, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped or 1 or 2 fresh hot peppers, seeded and chopped
4 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
0.5 cup of rice or vermicelli
salt
grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Have the butcher grind the meat twice, then mash it in a mortar to ensure complete pulverization or use a food processor.
Set the meat aside along with any juices.
Heat the oil in a skillet and sauté the onions and pepper until the onions are softened.
Add the tomatoes and cook until the mixture is thick and well blended, approximately 5 minutes longer.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Transfer the beef and its juices into a saucepan.
Stir in the sautéed onions, pepper, and tomatoes (known as the sofrito), along with 8 cups of cold water.
Mix well.
Bring the mixture to a boil over moderate heat, stirring with a wooden spoon.
Add the rice or noodles and simmer, while continuing to stir, until tender, approximately 15 minutes.
At this point, season to taste with salt.
Note: If salt is added earlier to the meat and liquid, which should be completely blended, they may separate.

Variations

Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables.
Use different types of pasta or rice for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to grind the meat twice for a smoother texture.

- Mash the meat in a mortar or use a food processor to ensure complete pulverization.

- Allow the sofrito (onions, peppers, and tomatoes) to cool slightly before adding it to the beef and water mixture.

- Season to taste with salt at the end to prevent separation of ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve So'O-Yosopy with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions and peppers until softened before adding the tomatoes for a flavorful base.

- Simmer the mixture slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground pork or lamb instead of beef for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute crushed red pepper flakes for the hot peppers.

Make Ahead Tips

So'O-Yosopy 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

Serve So'O-Yosopy in individual bowls topped with grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair So'O-Yosopy with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. A side of pickles or olives can also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover So'O-Yosopy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 20g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 20% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (parmesan cheese)

Summary

So'O-Yosopy is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family meal.

Summary

So'O-Yosopy is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With its flavorful combination of ground beef, vegetables, and noodles, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this traditional Central African dish with your loved ones today!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. I had always loved cooking, even as a child, and I would spend hours in the kitchen watching my mother prepare meals for our family.

One day, while out exploring the forest near our village, I stumbled upon a group of elderly women gathered around a large pot, cooking something that smelled absolutely delicious. Intrigued, I approached them and asked what they were making. They smiled at me kindly and told me they were making So'O-Yosopy, a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations in our village.

I watched intently as they prepared the dish, taking note of each ingredient and step in the process. They were kind enough to let me taste a small spoonful, and I was instantly hooked. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever experienced before – a perfect balance of savory and spicy, with a hint of sweetness that lingered on the palate.

I begged the women to teach me how to make So'O-Yosopy, and they agreed, happy to pass on their knowledge to a young, eager learner. Over the next few days, I spent every spare moment in their kitchen, soaking up as much information as I could. I learned about the importance of using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the art of balancing flavors to create a harmonious dish.

As I practiced making So'O-Yosopy on my own, I discovered that cooking was not just about following a recipe – it was about infusing the dish with love and care, and allowing the flavors to develop and meld together over time. I learned to trust my instincts and adjust the seasonings to suit my own taste, creating a version of So'O-Yosopy that was uniquely my own.

Years passed, and I continued to make So'O-Yosopy for my family and friends, each time adding a new twist or variation to keep things interesting. I shared the recipe with anyone who showed an interest, passing on the tradition that had been so generously shared with me all those years ago.

Now, as an older woman with grandchildren of my own, I cherish the memories of that fateful day in the forest, when I stumbled upon a group of wise women who were willing to share their knowledge and expertise with a curious young girl. The recipe for So'O-Yosopy has become a treasured part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that cooking can bring.

And so, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing a steaming pot of So'O-Yosopy for my loved ones, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and the memories I have made along the way. Cooking is not just a means to an end – it is a journey of discovery, a way to connect with others and share a piece of oneself with the world. And for that, I will always be thankful.