How to Prepare a Classic Spanish Onion Beef Stew- A Step-by-Step Guide

Cómo preparar una carne encebollada is a popular question among those who love hearty, comforting meals. This traditional Spanish dish is a flavorful combination of tender meat, onions, and a variety of spices, all simmered together to create a mouthwatering stew. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing this delicious dish, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade carne encebollada that will impress your family and friends.

The first step in preparing a carne encebollada is to gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need:

– 1 kilo of beef (such as chuck or brisket)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of tomatoes (about 400g)
– 1/2 cup of red wine (optional)
– 1 cup of water or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– 1 teaspoon of oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking

Once you have all the ingredients, follow these simple steps to prepare your carne encebollada:

1.

Start by cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces and setting them aside.

2.

In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and soft.

3.

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

4.

Season the beef with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Cook the beef for a few minutes, until it is browned on all sides.

5.

Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Cook for another minute to release the flavors of the spices.

6.

Add the can of tomatoes and red wine (if using) to the pot. Pour in the water or beef broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.

7.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the carne encebollada simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.

8.

During the last 10 minutes of cooking, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

9.

Once the carne encebollada is ready, serve it hot with rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Now that you know how to prepare a carne encebollada, you can enjoy this delicious Spanish stew in the comfort of your own home. Bon appétit!