Beef stew with vegetables for a comforting and healthy winter

What shouldn't be missing in winter recipes?

Winter recipes are usually warm, comforting, and nutritious, perfect for combating the cold. Here are some key ingredients you shouldn't miss:

Seasonal Ingredients

• Winter vegetables : Squash, carrots, potatoes, turnips, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach, and cauliflower. They're versatile and provide flavor and nutrients.
• Legumes : Lentils, chickpeas, beans and other legumes provide protein, fiber and warmth to stews and soups.
• Seasonal fruits : Oranges, tangerines, pomegranates, pears, apples and kiwis for desserts or vitamin-packed snacks.

Spices and Aromatic Herbs

• Warming : Cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger and turmeric add warmth and depth.
• Herbs : Rosemary, thyme, bay leaves and sage enhance the flavors of winter dishes such as stews and roasts.

Comforting Proteins

• Meats : Lamb, pork, beef or chicken for stews and roasts.
• Fatty fish : Salmon, mackerel or sardines are rich in essential fatty acids.
• Vegetarian options : Tofu, tempeh or seitan in lighter dishes.

Caloric and Comforting Base

• Cereals : Rice, quinoa, barley or farro for hot soups and salads.
• Pasta and bread : Ideal to accompany substantial dishes.

Broth or Tasty Stock

A good broth (vegetable, chicken, or meat) is the base for many soups, stews, and creamed dishes. It adds depth of flavor and is very comforting. Preparing a stew with beef and vegetables like artichokes, carrots, onions, and potatoes, with the addition of El Paeller's gourmet wood-fired chicken broth , turns a simple dish into a true experience for the palate.

Beef stew with seasonal vegetables

As our grandmothers used to say, "a good stew deserves its time," and in this case, we followed their advice: we let it sit overnight and finish it the next day. This little trick helps the flavors settle and the stew gain in intensity. With its hints of chicken and duck, the broth provides that authentic, deep flavor that can only be achieved by cooking over a wood fire. Below, I'll explain how to prepare this recipe in detail so you can achieve an unforgettable winter dish.

Ingredients

For this stew we will need:

• 600g beef (preferably in chunks for stewing)
• 3 artichokes (cleaned and cut into quarters)
• 3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 potatoes (cut into medium pieces)
• Gourmet wood-fired chicken broth from El Paeller (with chicken and duck, approximately 1 liter)
• 1 clove of garlic (finely chopped)
• 1 bay leaf
• EVOO
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sweet paprika (one teaspoon)
• A few sprigs of fresh thyme

Preparation time and additional information

• Preparation time : 20 minutes
• Cooking time : 1.5 hours (plus resting time)
• Servings : 4-5 people
• Category : main course

Preparation of beef stew with artichokes, carrots and potatoes

1. Sealing the meat

We begin by seasoning the beef pieces with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat and sear until browned on all sides. This step is essential to concentrate the meat's juices and add flavor to the stew. When it's well browned, remove and set aside.

2. Vegetable stir-fry

In the same oil where we browned the meat, add the onion and garlic cloves. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent. This step ensures that all the aromas of the vegetables are released and that the stew has a deep and delicious flavor.

Add a teaspoon of sweet paprika and stir quickly to prevent it from burning, as paprika becomes bitter when overcooked.

3. Integration of vegetables and chicken broth

Next, add the carrots, potatoes, and artichokes, along with the bay leaf and thyme. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Then, return the meat to the pot and pour in El Paeller's gourmet wood-fired poultry broth until all the ingredients are covered. This broth, made with chicken and duck, provides a depth of flavor that elevates the stew to another level.

4. Slow cooking

Cover the pot and let the stew simmer over low heat for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. You know, when it comes to stews, "patience is the mother of all flavor." By cooking it slowly, the meat becomes tender and the vegetables absorb the flavor of the broth, creating a flavorful stew.

5. Let it rest overnight

This step is optional, but it makes a difference. Once the stew is cooked, we let it cool and rest overnight. During the rest, the flavors blend and deepen, making the stew even more delicious the next day.

My grandmother's tips for a perfect stew

My grandmother had some tricks that I always apply to my stews and that will help you achieve an unforgettable dish:

1. Resting is key : As we mentioned, letting the stew rest overnight allows the flavors to settle. It's as if the dish gains "maturity," allowing each bite to be more flavorful.
2. Quality broth : Don't underestimate the importance of using a good broth. El Paeller's gourmet wood-fired chicken broth gives the dish a deep, authentic, smoky flavor that would be difficult to achieve with commercial broths.
3. Slow cooking : A stew shouldn't be rushed. Cooking it slowly allows the meat and vegetables to absorb all the flavors and the broth to reduce to the perfect consistency.
4. Add a touch of wine : If you want to give your stew a deeper flavor, you can add a splash of red wine while sautéing the onion and garlic. This adds a subtle nuance of flavor to the dish.

Serving the beef stew

Once it's rested, reheat the stew over low heat before serving. This dish is perfect with crusty bread and a fresh salad. Beef stew with artichokes, carrots, onions, and potatoes is a recipe that not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul.

Enjoying with family

This stew is one of those recipes best enjoyed in company, where every spoonful evokes family memories and provides warmth. The combination of ingredients and the presence of El Paeller's gourmet wood-fired chicken broth give this dish a unique flavor, with a depth of aromas and flavors reminiscent of traditional recipes of yesteryear.

The power of a good stew in winter

Stewed dishes are essential in winter. They keep us warm and allow us to enjoy time at home, while also providing nutritional benefits. Beef provides protein and iron, while vegetables and broth offer essential vitamins and minerals to strengthen the immune system during this time of year.

With the arrival of winter, there are few things as comforting as a good homemade stew. This recipe, full of flavor and tradition, is perfect for sharing with family and experiencing the warmth of a comforting home-cooked meal.

If you're looking for an easy and comforting recipe, this stew is the perfect option. You don't need to be a professional chef; just a little patience and the right ingredients will make a delicious stew, perfect for sharing .