Ingredients

• 700g Meat (beef, pork, or lamb), cut into medium pieces
• 2 Onions, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Dried Basil
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 2 Oranges, sliced into rings
• 1-2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for frying and greasing the baking dish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Cut the meat: Start by cutting 700 grams of your choice of meat (beef, pork, or lamb) into medium-sized pieces. Ensure the pieces are uniform for even cooking.
2. Season the meat: In a large mixing bowl, add the meat pieces, 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of dried basil, and 1 tsp of paprika. Mix everything well to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. Let the flavors blend: Cover the seasoned meat and let it rest for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat and enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Fry the Meat

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the meat: Add the seasoned meat pieces to the hot oil and fry them lightly for about 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage—just give them a nice sear to lock in the flavor.
3. Add the onions: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onions to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
4. Simmer the meat: Lower the heat to medium, cover the pan, and allow the meat to simmer with the onions for 10-15 minutes. This helps the meat become more tender and allows the flavors to meld together. If necessary, you can add a splash of water or broth to keep the meat from drying out.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat the oven: While the meat is simmering, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease the baking dish: Lightly grease an oven-safe dish with a little vegetable oil to prevent the meat from sticking.

Step 4: Layer the Oranges and Meat

1. Slice the oranges: Cut 2 oranges into thin rings. These orange slices will add a fresh, citrusy flavor to the dish.
2. Assemble the dish: Place a layer of orange slices at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Then, transfer the simmered meat and onions on top of the oranges. Arrange the remaining orange slices on top of the meat, creating a decorative layer.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

1. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, allowing the meat to finish cooking and absorb the flavor of the oranges.
2. Check for doneness: After baking, check to see if the meat is tender and cooked through. If it needs more time, you can bake it for an additional 10 minutes.
3. Broil for extra flavor (optional): For a slightly caramelized top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes and switch the oven to the broil setting. This will give the orange slices a golden, slightly charred appearance.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve the orange-infused meat hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 700mg

Note: These values are approximate and will vary based on the type of meat used.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, this recipe works well with various types of meat, including beef, pork, and lamb. You can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is cooked through.

2. Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?
Oranges add a sweet, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory meat. However, you can experiment with lemons or grapefruits if you prefer a more tangy or slightly bitter flavor profile.

3. What side dishes go well with this recipe?
This dish pairs well with starchy sides like rice, couscous, mashed potatoes, or polenta. You can also serve it with roasted or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and onions in advance, store them in the fridge, and then bake with the orange slices when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.

Tips for Making the Perfect Orange-Infused Stewed Meat

1. Choose the right meat: Use cuts of meat that are well-suited for slow cooking, such as beef chuck or pork shoulder. These cuts become tender and juicy when simmered and baked.
2. Don’t skip the searing: Searing the meat before simmering locks in the flavors and creates a richer taste. It also adds a beautiful golden color to the final dish.
3. Balance the flavors: The sweetness of the oranges can be balanced with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar if you prefer a tangier dish. You can also adjust the amount of seasoning according to your taste.
4. Let it rest: After baking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat, making it even more flavorful.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
2. Freezing: You can freeze the cooked meat for up to 3 months. Make sure to freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
3. Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the meat in a covered dish in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

Conclusion

Orange-Infused Stewed Meat with Onions and Spices is a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of savory meat, caramelized onions, and the zesty sweetness of oranges creates a balanced and satisfying meal. This recipe is straightforward, easy to follow, and perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Whether you’re serving it with a side of rice, potatoes, or vegetables, this dish is sure to impress with its unique blend of flavors. Try it today, and don’t forget to leave a comment or review to share your thoughts!