Beef And Plums
A hearty beef and plum stew with a rich, tangy sauce, perfect for cozy dinners and special occasions, combining tender meat, sweet plums, and a hint of brandy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the cubed beef in a little oil in a large skillet or pot.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper.
- Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent.
- Heat brandy in a small pan.
- Ignite the brandy carefully and pour it over the meat and onions.
- Shake the pan gently until the flame dies out.
- In a bowl, beat sour cream with beef stock, grated lemon rind, and lemon juice.
- Mix a little of the sour cream mixture with the flour to make a smooth paste.
- Return the paste to the sour cream mixture and stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked beef and onions.
- Add baked and pitted plums and halved olives.
- Simmer until flavors meld and the sauce thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. If plums are out of season, you can substitute dried plums or prunes for a similar taste. When igniting the brandy, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area and use a long lighter for safety. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over egg noodles or mashed potatoes to complement the savory flavors. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the beef and plums. For a hearty meal, pair it with a glass of red wine, which enhances the dish's richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to maintain moisture. Avoid reheating in the microwave for best texture and flavor retention.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Plums contains roughly 907 calories, with 54g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (107% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2211mg 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 type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with pork or chicken, but the cooking time may vary. Ensure the meat is cooked until tender. For a unique twist, try using lamb for a richer flavor.
What can I use instead of brandy?
If you prefer not to use brandy, you can substitute it with red wine or even apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic option. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions. You could also serve it with a spicy sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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).