Recipe Name:
Braised Beef with Paprika Potatoes

Introduction:
Braised Beef with Paprika Potatoes is a classic, heartwarming dish that brings rich, deep flavors to the table. This dish showcases tender, slow-cooked beef seasoned with salt and pepper and simmered in a savory vegetable broth until perfectly tender. Paired with paprika-infused potatoes cooked in lard for extra richness and seasoned with a hint of cumin, black pepper, and fresh herbs, this recipe is a perfect comfort meal. Ideal for cozy family dinners, this timeless dish offers a satisfying balance of rich protein and savory vegetables, demonstrating how a few well-chosen ingredients can transform into something truly special.

Ingredients:

For the Braised Beef:

• Beef leg meat – 2 kg
• Salt – to taste
• Black pepper – to taste
• All-purpose flour – for dusting
• Onions – 2, finely chopped
• Vegetable broth – 800 ml
• Vegetable oil – for browning

For the Paprika Potatoes:

• Potatoes – 4-6 large, peeled and cut into chunks
• Salt – to taste
• Ground cumin – to taste
• Lard – for frying (or substitute with vegetable oil)
• Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
• Sweet paprika – 2 teaspoons
• Chives – finely chopped, for garnish
• Fresh parsley – finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Pat the beef dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
   • Lightly coat the beef with all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This helps to create a nice crust when seared.
2. Sear the Beef:
   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the beef to the pot and sear on all sides until it’s golden brown. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side.
   • Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions:
   • In the same pot, add a bit more oil if necessary and sauté the chopped onions until they are soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as the onions cook, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
4. Deglaze and Braise:
   • Once the onions are cooked, pour in the vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any remaining bits. Bring the broth to a simmer.
   • Return the seared beef to the pot, cover, and lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
   • Let the beef braise for 2.5-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily. You may need to turn the beef occasionally and ensure it remains partially submerged in the broth.
5. Prepare the Paprika Potatoes:
   • In a separate skillet, heat the lard over medium heat. Add the potato chunks and cook until golden and crisp on all sides, about 10-15 minutes.
   • Season the potatoes with salt, black pepper, cumin, and sweet paprika, stirring well to coat.
   • Continue to cook the potatoes, occasionally stirring, until they are soft inside and crispy on the outside.
   • Once done, garnish with freshly chopped chives and parsley for added color and flavor.
6. Serve:
   • Slice the braised beef and serve alongside the paprika potatoes.
   • Ladle some of the braising broth over the beef for extra moisture and flavor.
   • Garnish with additional herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Braised Beef with Paprika Potatoes is a dish deeply rooted in traditional, hearty cooking methods, offering a rich taste that brings comfort and satisfaction. The technique of braising tough cuts of meat is a classic approach, transforming the beef into a tender and flavorful meal with minimal ingredients. Likewise, the use of potatoes seasoned with paprika, cumin, and herbs elevates a simple side into something extraordinary. This timeless dish has remained popular across generations because it uses staple ingredients, requires minimal preparation, and fills the home with a wonderful aroma as it cooks. Ideal for family gatherings or Sunday dinners, this recipe exemplifies how the art of slow cooking can bring out the best in basic ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximately):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 550 mg

Tips for Making the Best Braised Beef with Paprika Potatoes:

1. Use Fresh Beef: Choosing a fresh cut of beef leg or a similar cut that benefits from slow cooking will give the best texture and flavor.
2. Don’t Rush the Braise: Allow the beef plenty of time to cook at a low temperature. This helps break down the connective tissue and renders the meat soft and flavorful.
3. Crisp the Potatoes Separately: To ensure the potatoes stay crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, cook them in a separate skillet rather than adding them to the broth.
4. Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Fresh parsley and chives add brightness to the dish, balancing the rich flavors of the meat and potatoes.
5. Add Depth with Broth and Paprika: Vegetable broth and a generous amount of paprika give this dish its savory richness and a warm color. Don’t skimp on these key ingredients.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, braised beef often tastes even better the next day. Prepare the beef, allow it to cool, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Q: What’s the best substitute for lard in the potatoes?
If lard is unavailable, you can substitute with vegetable oil or butter. However, lard gives the potatoes a particularly rich flavor and crispy texture.

Q: Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! Chuck roast, brisket, or even beef shank work well with this braising method. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: Do I have to use paprika?
Paprika is a key seasoning in this dish, giving the potatoes their unique color and flavor. However, if you prefer a smoky touch, try smoked paprika or add a hint of chili powder for a mild heat.

Q: Can I use other vegetables in place of potatoes?
While potatoes are traditional, you could substitute with sweet potatoes, carrots, or even parsnips for a similar hearty side.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors of the braised beef may even intensify as it sits.
• Freezing: Braised beef freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For the best texture, freeze potatoes separately.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the beef and broth on the stovetop or in the oven at 150°C (300°F) until heated through. Potatoes can be reheated in a skillet or in the oven for maximum crispiness.

Conclusion:

Braised Beef with Paprika Potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary tradition that combines simplicity with flavor and technique. Each bite of this dish brings the deep, savory flavors of the slow-cooked beef, enriched with a hearty vegetable broth, and the warmth of paprika-coated potatoes that add color and spice. This dish is timeless because it takes classic, affordable ingredients and transforms them into a meal that feels both luxurious and comforting. Ideal for gatherings, this recipe is made for sharing and is a testament to the power of slow cooking and the joy of home-cooked food.

Braised Beef with Paprika Potatoes is a satisfying meal that brings people together, offering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and warmth. Each element—from the tenderness of the beef to the paprika-seasoned potatoes—comes together to create a recipe that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish offers an experience that’s hearty, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying.