Discover the rich flavors of Kakai Fefini, a hearty stew that combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a comforting meal, this recipe will guide you through each step to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, Kakai Fefini is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Follow our easy recipe to bring this traditional stew to your table today!

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat, cut into cubes

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 garlic cloves, minced

- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

- 2 medium carrots, sliced

- 1 bell pepper, diced

- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed

- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut

- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

- 2 cups beef broth

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Beef:

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

  - Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:

  - In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent.

  - Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Vegetables:

  - Add the carrots, bell pepper, potato, and green beans to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Spices and Tomato Paste:

  - Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and tomato paste. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.

Simmer the Stew:

  - Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and coconut milk. Stir to combine.

  - Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Season and Serve:

  - Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

  - Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve Kakai Fefini with steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the hearty and flavorful stew that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Nutritional values

1 lb (450 g) Beef Stew Meat, Cut into Cubes

 - Calories: Approximately 900-1,000 kcal (varies by fat content)

 - Protein: 80-90g

 - Fat: 60-70g (varies by fat content)

 - Iron: Significant amount

 - Vitamin B12: High

Benefits:

 - High in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.

 - Provides essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin B12.

 - Iron is important for red blood cell production and oxygen transport.

2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil

 - Calories: About 240 kcal

 - Fat: 28g (mostly unsaturated fats)

Benefits:

 - Provides healthy fats that support heart health and can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

 - Enhances the flavor of the dish and helps with cooking.

1 Large Onion, Finely Chopped

 - Calories: About 30 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

 - Fiber: 1.5g

 - Vitamin C: 8 mg

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants like quercetin that help reduce inflammation.

 - Provides dietary fiber for digestive health.

 - Contains vitamin C, which supports the immune system.

3 Garlic Cloves, Minced

 - Calories: About 15 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 3g

 - Vitamin C: 3 mg

Benefits:

 - Contains allicin, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

 - May help reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.

 - Adds depth of flavor to the dish.

1-Inch Piece of Ginger, Grated

 - Calories: About 5 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin C: 0.5 mg

Benefits:

 - Contains gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

 - May help with digestion and reduce nausea.

 - Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the dish.

2 Medium Carrots, Sliced

 - Calories: About 50 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 12g

 - Fiber: 3g

 - Vitamin A: High (beta-carotene)

 - Vitamin C: 6 mg

Benefits:

 - Rich in beta-carotene, which supports vision and immune function.

 - Provides dietary fiber for digestive health.

 - Adds natural sweetness and crunch to the dish.

1 Bell Pepper, Diced

 - Calories: About 30 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

 - Vitamin C: 95 mg

Benefits:

 - Very high in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.

 - Contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein.

 - Adds color and sweetness to the dish.

1 Large Potato, Peeled and Cubed

 - Calories: About 160 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 37g

 - Fiber: 4g

 - Vitamin C: 27 mg

Benefits:

 - Provides carbohydrates for energy and fiber for digestion.

 - Contains vitamin C, which supports immune function.

 - Adds a hearty texture to the dish.

1 Cup Green Beans, Trimmed and Cut

 - Calories: About 40 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Fiber: 4g

 - Vitamin C: 15 mg

Benefits:

 - Provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.

 - Contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.

 - Adds crunch and freshness to the dish.

1 Can (14 oz) Coconut Milk

 - Calories: About 450 kcal

 - Fat: 48g (mostly saturated fat)

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Protein: 4g

Benefits:

 - Provides healthy fats, which can support heart health and add creaminess to the dish.

 - Adds a rich, tropical flavor.

2 Cups Beef Broth

 - Calories: About 30 kcal (varies by brand)

 - Protein: 5g

 - Sodium: High (varies by brand)

Benefits:

 - Adds depth of flavor to the dish.

 - Provides some protein and essential nutrients.

1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste

 - Calories: About 15 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 3g

Benefits:

 - Concentrated flavor that enhances the dish.

 - Contains lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce cancer risk.

1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin

 - Calories: About 8 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Iron: 1.4 mg

Benefits:

 - Provides iron, which is essential for blood health.

 - Has digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

 - Adds a warm, earthy flavor.

1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander

 - Calories: About 5 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

 - Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor.

1/2 Teaspoon Turmeric

 - Calories: About 5 kcal

Benefits:

 - Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

 - May help with joint health and digestive issues.

 - Adds a warm, slightly bitter flavor and vibrant color.

1/2 Teaspoon Paprika

 - Calories: About 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants like capsaicin which may have anti-inflammatory effects.

 - Adds a mild, smoky flavor and color.

Salt and Pepper to Taste

 - Salt: Sodium content varies by amount used

 - Pepper: Minimal calories and nutrients

Benefits:

 - Enhance the overall flavor of the dish; use salt in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Fresh Cilantro for Garnish (Optional)

 - Minimal calories

 - Rich in vitamins A, C, and K

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and freshness to the dish.

 - Contains antioxidants and vitamins that contribute to overall health.

These ingredients combine to create a hearty and flavorful stew, offering a good balance of proteins, fats, and vegetables, with numerous health benefits.