Barcelona Beef Stew
A hearty Barcelona beef stew featuring tender rump steak, smoky bacon, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cube the rump steak into 1-inch squares.
- Cook the bacon slices in a skillet until crisp, then drain and transfer to a casserole dish.
- Brown the steak in the bacon drippings until browned.
- Add salt and pepper, then put the meat in the bacon dish.
- Saute the sliced onions for 5 minutes, then add to the meat.
- In the remaining fat, brown the uncooked rice, then set aside.
- Add the bay leaf, thyme, and crushed garlic to the meat.
- Pour in the beef stock and add the peeled and chopped tomatoes.
- Cover the dish and bake at 325°F for 1 hour.
- Cook the rice separately and add it to the dish.
- Cook for an additional 90 minutes, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the rump steak in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs overnight. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon. Feel free to use brown rice instead of white for added nutrition, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with your favorite wine or a refreshing iced tea. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a side of roasted vegetables or even a warm biscuit.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Barcelona Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of beef stock if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barcelona Beef Stew contains roughly 676 calories, with 23g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (108% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2206mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just remember that tougher cuts benefit from longer cooking times to become tender. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the cut you choose.
What can I substitute for beef stock?
If you're looking for a lighter option, vegetable broth is a great substitute. For a richer flavor, you could also use chicken stock. Both alternatives will maintain the stew's moisture and depth of flavor.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, cool completely, and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving for the best taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).