Indulge in the rich flavors of Galicia with our traditional Carne ao Caldeiro, a hearty stewed beef dish that encapsulates the essence of this Northwestern Spanish region. Slow-cooked to perfection, tender beef melds with aromatic herbs, potatoes, and paprika-infused broth, creating a comforting culinary experience that celebrates Galician gastronomy. Served piping hot, this dish promises a taste of tradition and warmth with every savory spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs (700g) beef chuck or similar stewing beef, cut into chunks
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
• ½ teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups (480ml) beef broth or water
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Preparation:

1- Cut the beef into bite-sized chunks if not already done.

2- Peel and dice the potatoes.

3- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Brown the Beef:

1- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

2- Add the beef chunks to the pot and season with salt and pepper.

3- Brown the beef on all sides, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot. This step helps to develop flavor.

4- Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Saute the Aromatics:

1- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic.

2- Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Paprika and Bay Leaf:

1- Sprinkle the sweet paprika and hot paprika (if using) over the onions and garlic.

2- Stir well to coat the onions and garlic in the paprika.

3- Add the bay leaf to the pot and stir to combine.

Combine Ingredients:

1- Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any accumulated juices.

2- Add the diced potatoes to the pot.

3- Pour in the beef broth or water, ensuring that the beef and potatoes are mostly covered. Add more liquid if necessary.

Simmer:

1- Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat.

2- Cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.

3- Let the stew simmer gently for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through. Stir occasionally.

Serve:

1- Once the beef and potatoes are cooked to your liking, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

2- Remove the bay leaf from the pot.

3- Serve the Carne ao Caldeiro hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Enjoy the hearty flavors of Galicia with this comforting Carne ao Caldeiro!

Nutritional Values :

Beef Chuck (1 ½ lbs / 700g):

• Calories: 1,440 kcal
• Protein: 108g
• Fat: 96g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Provides iron, zinc, and B vitamins for energy production and immune function.

Potatoes (2 large):

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 76g
• Fiber: 8g

benefits:

• Good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health and helping with satiety.
• Contains vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins for overall health and wellbeing.

Onion (1 large):

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health and promote a healthy microbiome.
• Provides vitamin C and other nutrients for immune function and skin health.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Has antimicrobial properties that may help fight infections and support immune function.
• Contains compounds like allicin, which may lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Rich in antioxidants that protect against cell damage and oxidative stress.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can improve heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Contains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, which may protect against chronic diseases.
• Helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and promotes satiety.

Sweet Paprika (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 20 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits:

• Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and aid in weight management.
• Rich in antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties and may protect against diseases.
• Provides vitamin A, which is essential for vision health and immune function.

Hot Paprika (optional, ½ teaspoon):

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Similar benefits to sweet paprika, including metabolism boosting and antioxidant properties.
• Contains capsaicin, which may help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Beef Broth (2 cups / 480ml):

• Calories: 20 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Provides hydration and essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium.
• Contains gelatin, which supports joint health and may improve skin elasticity.
• Rich in amino acids like glycine and proline, which support gut health and immune function.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific cuts of beef used, the amount of fat trimmed, and variations in ingredients. Additionally, the values provided are per serving based on the quantities specified in the recipe.