Dive into the rich and savory world of Middle Eastern cuisine with this delectable Beef Okra Stew recipe. This hearty stew, brimming with tender beef, vibrant okra, and a symphony of aromatic spices, is a culinary journey you won't want to miss. Imagine the succulent beef melting in your mouth, the satisfying chew of the okra, all enveloped in a deeply flavorful broth that's both comforting and exciting. It's the perfect dish for a chilly evening or a special gathering, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.
This recipe expertly balances traditional Middle Eastern flavors with simple, accessible ingredients. We’ll guide you through each step, from expertly browning the beef to achieving the perfect okra texture. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Saucepan or Wok
Ingredients
- Beef (stewing beef): 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
- Okra (small): 3 cups
- Canned Tomatoes: 1 can (400ml)
- Tomato Paste: 250g (about 1 cup)
- Onion: 1 cup
- Garlic: 1 tablespoon
- Green Cardamom Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Dried Red Chili
- Olive Oil: 3-4 tablespoons
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Water or Stock: 2 cups
- Cilantro/Coriander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sear the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan or wok over medium-high heat. Add cubed beef and cook for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic, salt, black pepper, onion, cumin powder, and green cardamom powder. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 2. Build the Stew Base
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the oil starts to separate.
- Add canned tomatoes (roughly chopped) and 2 cups of water or stock. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 25 minutes.
Step 3. Simmer and Finish
- Add okra and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check for seasoning (salt and pepper). Stir in cilantro/coriander.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with rice, roti, or bread.
Read more: Delicious Chicken Maqluba Rice Recipe (Sinhala)
Tips
- Use stewing beef; even if it's not the best quality, the long cooking time will make it tender.
- If you don't have green cardamom powder, you can use whole green pods.
- Add okra only after the beef is cooked through. The cooking time depends on the quality of the beef.
- It's important to cook the tomato paste out so the oil starts to separate. This will enhance the flavour.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen okra?
Yes, frozen okra works well. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the stew to prevent excess moisture.
2. What kind of beef is best for this stew?
Stewing beef or chuck roast is ideal because they're tougher cuts that become incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
3. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more or less chili powder or other spices to suit your taste. Start with less and add more as needed.
This Middle Eastern Beef Okra Stew is a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with flavorful spices. Enjoy the rich, comforting taste of this satisfying dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Now go forth and create your own culinary masterpiece!