Stewed Beef in Coconut milk

Stewed Beef in Coconut milk Recipe from Trinidad and Tobago

Region / culture: Trinidad and Tobago | Servings: 6

Introduction

Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk is a delicious and hearty dish that is popular in many Caribbean and African countries. The combination of tender beef, rich coconut milk, and aromatic spices creates a flavorful and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.

History

This recipe has its roots in traditional Caribbean and African cuisine, where coconut milk is a common ingredient used in savory dishes. Stewing beef in coconut milk helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with a rich and creamy flavor.

Ingredients

6 leaves of bay leaf
3 lb (1.36 kg) tender beef, cut into pieces
6 leaves of broadleaf thyme (also known as Spanish thyme in Trinidad); can be substituted with other types of thyme
1-2 cup coconut milk
salt and pepper, to taste
garlic, to taste
onion, to taste
chives, to taste
oil and a small amount of brown sugar for browning the beef

How to prepare

Brown the beef in oil. In a heavy iron pot, heat about 4 tbsp of oil. Add brown sugar and fry until the sugar has become a brown syrup. Then, add the beef.
Add coconut milk, bay leaf, thyme, and seasoning. Cook on a slow fire until tender. This may take 1.5 – 2 hours.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or carrots to the stew for added texture and flavor.
Use chicken or lamb instead of beef for a different twist on the dish.
Add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the beef before adding it to the pot. This will help to seal in the juices and create a flavorful crust on the meat.

- Cooking the beef on a slow fire will help to tenderize it and allow the flavors to meld together.

- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less garlic, onion, chives, and pepper to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk over rice or with a side of fried plantains for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef before stewing helps to develop a rich flavor in the dish.

- Cooking the stew on a slow fire allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken or lamb instead of beef in this recipe.

- If you don't have coconut milk, you can use heavy cream or a combination of milk and coconut extract.

Make Ahead Tips

Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk in a shallow bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. You can also garnish with a drizzle of coconut milk or a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk pairs well with steamed rice, fried plantains, or a side of sautéed greens. Serve with a cold beer or a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 5g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 20g per serving

Saturated Fat: 15g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Vitamin C: 10% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Alergens

Contains coconut milk

Summary

Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk is a rich and flavorful dish that is high in protein and iron. It is a satisfying meal that is perfect for a hearty dinner.

Summary

Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender beef, rich coconut milk, and aromatic spices creates a flavorful meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy this dish with rice, plantains, or your favorite side for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, during a trip to the Philippines, that I stumbled upon this delicious dish of Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk. I had always loved trying new foods and learning new recipes, and this particular dish captivated me from the first bite.

I remember it like it was yesterday - the bustling streets of Manila, the vibrant colors of the fresh produce in the market, and the inviting aroma of spices wafting through the air. I had been wandering through the market, marveling at the array of fruits, vegetables, and meats on display, when I came across a small food stall tucked away in a corner.

Curious, I approached the stall and watched as the vendor skillfully prepared a pot of stewed beef simmering in rich coconut milk. The sight and smell were enough to make my mouth water, and I knew I had to try it. I ordered a bowl of the stew and took a seat at one of the nearby tables, eager to dig in.

The first bite was heavenly - tender chunks of beef melting in my mouth, infused with the sweet and creamy flavor of coconut milk. The dish was rich and comforting, with just the right amount of spices to add a kick of heat. I savored every bite, savoring the flavors and textures that danced on my tongue.

After finishing my meal, I couldn't resist asking the vendor for the recipe. To my surprise, he was more than happy to share it with me. He explained the ingredients and the process of cooking the stew, offering tips and insights along the way. I scribbled down notes furiously, eager to recreate the dish at home.

Back in my own kitchen, I set to work preparing the Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk. I gathered all the ingredients - beef, coconut milk, onions, garlic, ginger, and a medley of spices - and followed the steps I had learned in Manila. As the stew simmered on the stove, filling the air with its intoxicating aroma, I felt a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment wash over me.

When the dish was finally ready, I ladled it into a bowl and took a tentative bite. The flavors were just as I remembered - rich, creamy, and bursting with the perfect blend of spices. I couldn't believe that I had managed to recreate the dish so faithfully, thanks to the generosity of the vendor in Manila.

Since that day, Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk has become a favorite in my household. I have made it countless times for family gatherings, special occasions, and even just for a cozy night in. Each time I prepare the dish, I am transported back to that bustling market in Manila, where I first fell in love with this culinary gem.

Over the years, I have added my own touches and variations to the recipe, making it my own. Sometimes I throw in some vegetables for added freshness, or experiment with different cuts of beef for variety. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the essence of the dish remains the same - a comforting bowl of stew that warms the soul and satisfies the senses.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day in Manila, I am filled with gratitude for the journey that led me to discover this recipe. It is a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring, and the power of sharing recipes and culinary traditions with others. I am grateful for the kindness of the vendor who shared his recipe with me, and for the countless meals and memories that Stewed Beef in Coconut Milk has brought to my table.

And so, as I take another bite of the stew that has become a staple in my kitchen, I can't help but smile. The flavors are as delicious as ever, and the memories of my culinary adventure in Manila are as vivid as if they had happened just yesterday. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and magic of discovering new flavors and traditions.