Indulge in the rich flavors and vibrant culinary heritage of Costa Rica with this authentic Olla de Carne recipe. Translating to "pot of meat," Olla de Carne is a beloved traditional dish that embodies the essence of Costa Rican cuisine. Bursting with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and fragrant spices, this soul-warming stew is a comforting delight that brings families together around the table.

Originating from the countryside kitchens of Costa Rica, Olla de Carne has evolved into a cherished national dish, cherished for its simplicity, wholesomeness, and deliciousness. Whether enjoyed on a cool evening or served during festive gatherings, this recipe promises to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed landscapes of Central America. So gather your ingredients, prepare your pot, and let's embark on a culinary journey to savor the flavors of Costa Rica's Olla de Carne.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 yucca root, peeled and diced
• 1 plantain, peeled and sliced
• 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

2- Add the beef stew meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

3- Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute to toast the spices.

4- Pour in the beef broth and water, and bring the mixture to a boil.

5- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6- Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, diced yucca, sliced plantains, and corn to the pot, and continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through.

7- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

8- Serve the Olla de Carne hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

9- Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Costa Rican beef soup with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal that will warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Costa Rican Olla de Carne recipe:

Beef Stew Meat (1 pound):

• Calories: 780
• Protein: 100g
• Fat: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:Excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins essential for muscle health and overall energy levels.

Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 14g

benefits:Provides healthy fats and vitamin E, important for heart health and skin maintenance.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g

benefits:Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, onions may help boost immunity and reduce the risk of chronic disease

Garlic (3 cloves):

• Calories: 13
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 1g

benefits:Contains allicin, a compound with antimicrobial properties that may support immune function and cardiovascular health.

Carrots (2 medium):

• Calories: 52
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 1g

benefits:Packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin C, carrots promote eye health, digestion, and immune function.

Potatoes (2 medium):

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 64g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 8g

benefits:High in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, potatoes support heart health, digestion, and immune function.

Yucca Root (1 medium):

• Calories: 330
• Carbohydrates: 78g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 3g

benefits:A good source of carbohydrates and fiber, yucca root provides sustained energy and supports digestive health.

Plantain (1 medium):

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g

benefits:Rich in vitamins A and C, plantains support immune function and skin health, and their fiber content aids digestion.

Corn (2 ears):

• Calories: 132
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g

benefits:Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, corn supports digestive health, eye health, and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 8
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 0.5g

benefits:Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall health and wellness.

Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 5
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits:Rich in antioxidants, oregano may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting immune function and reducing inflammation.

Beef Broth (6 cups):

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Contains essential nutrients like protein and collagen, which support joint health, gut health, and may aid in digestion.

Water (2 cups): No significant nutritional value.

benefits:Essential for hydration and maintaining bodily functions, water supports overall health and well-being.

Cilantro (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 1
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:Rich in vitamins A and K, cilantro may have antioxidant properties and support detoxification processes in the body.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific brands of ingredients used.