Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 lbs beef bottom round steaks , cut into 2 inch pieces and trimmed of fat
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 medium onions , chopped
2 cloves garlic , minced
1 cup dry red wine ( Zinfandel )
1 can tomato paste
1 tablespoon pickling spices
1 bay leaf
1 can peeled Italian tomatoes , chopped and undrained
7 ounces Italian bread or 7 ounces French bread , torn into 3 inch chunks
2 tablespoons chopped of fresh mint ( optional )
Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Portugal, this stew is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for cold winter days. Made with tender beef, savory pickling spices, and juicy tomatoes, this stew is packed with flavor and nutrients. Served with crusty bread or over rice, this dish is a satisfying and filling meal that is sure to please. While it can be time-consuming to make, the end result is well worth the effort.

Instructions

1.Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2.Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it in the pot until browned on all sides, working in batches if necessary.
3.Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
4.Add the onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
5.Pour in the red wine and stir, scraping up any browned bits.
6.Add the tomato paste, pickling spices, bay leaf, and tomatoes with their juice, then stir.
7.Return the beef to the pot and stir.
8.Add enough water to just cover the beef and bring the mixture to a simmer.
9.Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
10.Remove the bay leaf and skim any excess fat from the surface of the stew.
11.Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh mint if desired.

PROS

The Portuguese Spiced Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for chilly evenings.

The stew is packed with flavor and is easy to make.

CONS

The stew can be time-consuming to make due to the long cooking time, so it may not be ideal for busy weeknights.

Additionally, the stew is relatively high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While the Portuguese Spiced Beef Stew is not particularly low in fat or calories, it contains a number of healthy ingredients.
Beef is a good source of protein, while the tomatoes and onions in the stew are packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Additionally, the stew contains pickling spices, which may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

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