Tender Beef and Red Bean Stew with White Rice: A Hearty Comfort Meal

by

Introduction

Dive into a classic comfort dish that combines melt-in-your-mouth beef, rich red beans, and perfectly cooked white rice. This traditional recipe brings together robust flavors and tender textures, creating a satisfying meal that warms both body and soul. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy weekend meal, this stew represents the essence of home-style cooking.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Beef and Bean Stew

  • 400g beef (shin or flank)
  • 250g dried white beans (or 500g canned beans)
  • 1 medium yellow onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 beef bouillon cube
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon mild or hot chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 600ml hot water

For the White Rice

  • 250g long-grain rice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 500ml water
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil

Garnish

  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Detailed Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

  • Soak dried beans overnight in cold water
  • Boil in unsalted water for 1 hour until tender
  • Drain and set aside

Step 2: Cook the Beef

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large pot
  • Brown beef chunks on all sides
  • Season with salt and pepper

Step 3: Prepare Aromatics

  • Add chopped onion and minced garlic
  • Sauté until lightly colored
  • Stir in tomato paste, cook for 1 minute

Step 4: Simmering

  • Add crushed tomatoes, bouillon cube, bay leaf
  • Add paprika, chili powder, and hot water
  • Cover and simmer on low heat for 50 minutes

Step 5: Add Beans

  • Incorporate cooked beans
  • Adjust seasoning
  • Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to thicken sauce

Step 6: Cook the Rice

  • Rinse rice until water runs clear
  • Boil water with oil and salt
  • Add rice, cover, and cook for 15 minutes
  • Let rest 5 minutes before serving

Step 7: Plate and Serve

  • Mold rice in a dome
  • Pour beef and bean stew around rice
  • Garnish with raw red onion and parsley

Nutritional Information

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 8g

Preparation Time: 1 hour Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Expert Cooking Tips and Tricks

  1. Longer simmering makes beef more tender
  2. Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor
  3. Choose high-quality beef for best results
  4. Pat beef dry before browning
  5. Don’t rush the cooking process

Delicious Variations and Substitutions

  • Use different bean varieties
  • Try lamb instead of beef
  • Add root vegetables to the stew
  • Experiment with spice levels
  • Make vegetarian with plant-based protein

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use canned beans? Yes, drain and rinse before adding to stew.

Q2: How to store leftovers? Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish? Yes, freeze without rice for up to 1 month.

Q4: What if beans are too hard? Ensure proper soaking and extended cooking time.

Q5: Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely, adjust liquid and cooking times.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate up to 3 days
  • Flavors improve overnight
  • Reheat gently to maintain texture
  • Separate rice and stew when storing
  • Best consumed within 48 hours

Bon appétit!