Columbian Beef Stew
A hearty Colombian beef stew featuring tender meat, potatoes, carrots, corn, and peas, infused with cumin and oregano for a flavorful comfort dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the cubed beef with bay leaf, salt, cumin, pepper, garlic, and onion until the meat is tender.
- Add potatoes, carrots, celery, and tomato paste to the stew.
- Cook for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add peas, corn on the cob, and oregano to the stew.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider marinating the beef in the spices overnight. If you don't have chuck, brisket or round cuts can work as substitutes. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor; try using fresh oregano if available. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cut vegetables or frozen mixed vegetables for convenience. This dish pairs beautifully with Arroz Con Picadillo.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Columbian Beef Stew with crusty bread or over fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful broth. A side of avocado salad or simple green salad adds freshness and balance to the meal. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with Stuffed Steak (Rouladen) or a side of plantains for an authentic experience.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the beef stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Columbian Beef Stew contains roughly 1591 calories, with 35g protein, 251g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (206% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (130% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2558mg per serving (111% 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 other types of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute the chuck beef with other cuts like brisket or round. Just ensure the meat is suitable for slow cooking to achieve tenderness. If you're looking for a lighter option, chicken thighs can also be used, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How can I thicken the stew if it's too watery?
If your stew is too thin, you can thicken it by making a slurry with cornstarch and water, then stirring it into the stew while simmering. Alternatively, let the stew simmer uncovered for a bit longer to allow the liquid to reduce and thicken naturally.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this stew in a slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the broth and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
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).