Ingredients for Beef Stew with Red Wine Sauce
Beef (chuck or shin): 500g
Tomatoes: 3
Potatoes: 2
Carrot: 1
Onion: 1
Garlic: 3 cloves
Ginger: 1 small knob
Red wine: 100ml
Tapioca starch: 1 tablespoon (or cornstarch)
Seasonings: salt, sugar, MSG, pepper, cinnamon, star anise, cardamom
Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
Beef broth (or water): 500ml
Coriander: for garnish
Bread or white rice: served alongside
Cooking Instructions
Wash the tomatoes, cut a cross at the bottom of each, blanch them in boiling water, peel and finely chop.
Peel and cut the potatoes and carrot into bite-sized pieces. Cut the onion into wedges. Finely chop the garlic and ginger.
Lightly toast the star anise and cardamom in a pan, then place them in a small cloth bag and tie it securely.
Searing the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pot, add the garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
Add the beef and sear on high heat. Pour in 50ml of red wine and stir until the alcohol evaporates and the meat absorbs the flavor.
Making the Red Wine Sauce
In the same pot, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
Pour in 500ml of beef broth (or water) and add the bag of spices (star anise and cardamom). Bring to a boil and skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
Add the potatoes and carrot, then season with 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of MSG. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrot are tender.
Finishing Touches
Add the onion and cook for another 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix the tapioca starch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Gradually stir this into the stew to thicken the sauce.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding pepper if desired. Garnish with coriander and serve hot.
Serving Suggestion
Spoon the beef stew onto plates or bowls. Enjoy it with bread or white rice. For an extra indulgent experience, dip the bread into the savory sauce.
Tips for a Tastier Stew
Opt for beef with a bit of connective tissue to ensure tenderness without drying out.
Red wine enhances the flavor and helps mask any gaminess. Inexpensive wine works just fine—no need to break the bank!
Add chili peppers or chili powder during seasoning if you prefer a spicier kick.
Bon appétit! May your culinary journey be filled with delightful flavors and satisfying meals.
