Ingredients

1000 g beef ( in one piece )
2 cups red wine vinegar
150 g dried plums ( no seeds )
50 g garlic
100 g bacon ( dried smoked )
2 cups red wine
80 g onions
80 g carrots
80 g celery root
80 g parsley roots
salt
pepper
2 cups sweet wine ( Croatian pro ek , like Hungarian Tokai )
80 g tomato jam
80 g olive oil
100 g parmesan cheese ( grated )
Croatian Dalmatian Pasticada is a traditional beef dish from the Dalmatia region of Croatia, which lies along the Adriatic coast. It is typically served on special occasions, like weddings and holidays, and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The recipe dates back to the 16th century and has been passed down through generations of Croatian families. The dish is known for its complex flavor profile, which combines savory beef, sweet plums, and tangy tomato jam. It's a true taste of the region's rich culinary history.

Instructions

1.Begin by marinating the beef in the red wine vinegar and dried plums for at least 2-3 hours.
2.Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside.
3.Remove the beef from the marinade and add it to the pot with the bacon fat. Sear on all sides until browned.
4.Add the onions, garlic, carrots, celery root, parsley roots, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables have softened.
5.Add the red wine and sweet wine to the pot and bring it to a boil.
6.Add the tomato jam and olive oil to the pot.
7.Transfer everything to a large baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the oven for 2-3 hours, until the beef is fall-apart tender.
8.Serve the beef with grated parmesan cheese and the cooked bacon on top.

PROS

Croatian Dalmatian Pasticada is a hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, sweet plums, and rich tomato jam for a truly unique taste.
It’s perfect for a cold winter day or a cozy family dinner.

CONS

This recipe takes several hours to cook, so it’s not ideal for a quick meal.
It also contains a decent amount of red wine, so it’s not appropriate for those who don’t consume alcohol.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Croatian Dalmatian Pasticada is not necessarily the healthiest recipe around, it does contain several nutritious ingredients. Beef is a good source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Tomatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, including lycopene, which has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Dried plums are also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.

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