Spanish Cocido

Spanish Cocido Recipe - Hearty Beef and Chickpea Stew from Spain

Region / culture: Spain | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spanish Cocido is a traditional Spanish stew that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of delicious flavors that come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

History

Cocido has been a staple in Spanish cuisine for centuries, with each region of Spain putting its own unique twist on the dish. Originally a peasant dish, Cocido was created as a way to make use of inexpensive and readily available ingredients such as chickpeas, meats, and vegetables. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of meats, spices, and seasonings, making it a versatile and delicious meal enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) casserole steak, cut into 1 inch squares
3 tbsp olive oil
0.5 lb (227 g) chorizo sausage
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
0.25 tsp marjoram
0.25 tsp thyme
1 (8 oz (227 g)) can chopped tomatoes
2 (8 oz (227 g)) cans chickpeas
2 cup beef stock
salt and pepper
0.25 cup sherry wine

How to prepare

Saute the beef in oil in a casserole dish until lightly browned.
Add chorizo, onion, garlic, bay leaf, marjoram, and thyme.
When the onion is limp and golden, add tomatoes and stock.
Puree one can of chickpeas and add it to the mixture.
Cover the casserole and cook at 100°C for 5 hours.
Drain the second can of chickpeas and add them to the stew, cook for 30 minutes more.
Season with salt and pepper and add sherry just before serving.

Variations

Add potatoes or carrots for extra vegetables.
Use different types of meat such as pork or chicken.
Add smoked paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Make sure to simmer the stew on low heat for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spanish Cocido with crusty bread, a side salad, or a glass of red wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the stew allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

- Pureeing one can of chickpeas adds thickness and creaminess to the stew.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of sausage or meat you prefer.

- Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth for a vegetarian version.

Make Ahead Tips

Spanish Cocido can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spanish Cocido in a large bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Spanish Cocido pairs well with a glass of red wine, crusty bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spanish Cocido contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spanish Cocido contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spanish Cocido contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spanish Cocido contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spanish Cocido is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Spanish Cocido contains gluten from the chickpeas and may contain allergens from the sausage.

Summary

Spanish Cocido is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Spanish Cocido is a delicious and comforting stew that is perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Spanish Cocido. It was a warm summer day, the kind of day that makes you feel alive and full of possibilities. I was visiting my friend Maria, who lived in a charming little village in the Spanish countryside. She had invited me over for lunch, and as soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was hit with the most mouthwatering aroma.

Maria was an incredible cook, and she was always experimenting with new recipes and flavors. On that particular day, she was making her famous Spanish Cocido, a hearty and flavorful stew that was a staple in her household. As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Maria noticed my interest and invited me to join her in the kitchen. She handed me a spoon and asked me to taste the broth, which was rich and fragrant with a harmonious blend of spices. As I savored the flavors, Maria began to explain the origins of the recipe.

She told me that Spanish Cocido was a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations in her family. It was a beloved comfort food that brought people together and warmed their hearts and bellies on cold winter days. The recipe was simple yet complex, requiring a mix of fresh ingredients and a lot of love and care in the preparation.

Maria showed me how to layer the ingredients in a large pot, starting with a base of onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Then came the meats – chunks of beef, pork, and chorizo – which added depth and richness to the stew. Next, she added a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, and cabbage, along with chickpeas and a handful of spices like paprika, cumin, and saffron.

As the pot simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, Maria shared with me some tips and tricks for perfecting the dish. She explained that patience was key, as the longer the stew cooked, the more the flavors would meld together and develop. She also stressed the importance of seasoning to taste, as each batch of Spanish Cocido was unique and could be adjusted to suit individual preferences.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I was blown away by the depth of flavor and the comforting warmth of the stew. Each bite was a symphony of tastes and textures, from the tender meats to the creamy chickpeas to the sweet vegetables. I felt as though I had been transported to a cozy kitchen in the heart of Spain, surrounded by loved ones and good food.

After lunch, Maria presented me with a handwritten copy of the recipe for Spanish Cocido. She told me that she had never shared it with anyone outside of her family before, but she could see that I had a passion for cooking and a genuine interest in learning the secrets of her kitchen. I was touched by her generosity and vowed to honor the recipe and pass it down to future generations.

Over the years, I have made Spanish Cocido countless times, always with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the traditions and memories it represents. I have added my own touches and variations to the recipe, making it my own while staying true to the essence of Maria's original creation. Each time I prepare the stew, I am transported back to that sunny day in her kitchen, surrounded by the love and warmth of good food and good friends.

Spanish Cocido has become a beloved staple in my own household, a dish that brings people together and nourishes both body and soul. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from Maria and to carry on the legacy of this timeless recipe. And as I continue to cook and share the dish with others, I know that its magic will live on for generations to come.