Hearty Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Bone Marrow

Hearty Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Bone Marrow

Introduction

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a rich and flavorful beef stew, slow-cooked to perfection. This dish brings together tender beef, bone marrow, and a medley of aromatic spices, creating a deeply satisfying meal that warms the soul. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even couscous. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while the bone marrow adds an extra layer of richness and depth.

Ingredients

• 1 kg beef shank (with bone marrow)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, grated
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sear the Meat:
   In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef shank pieces and sear on all sides until browned. This step locks in the juices and enhances the flavor. Remove the meat and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Build the Base:
   Add the grated tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens slightly.

4. Season and Simmer:
   Return the seared beef to the pot and sprinkle with paprika, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the meat evenly with the spices.

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5. Slow Cooking Process:
   Pour in the beef broth (or water) and add the bay leaf. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

6. Add the Vegetables:
   After the first hour of cooking, add the diced carrots and potatoes. Stir well, cover again, and let it continue simmering until the meat becomes fall-apart tender and the vegetables are soft.

7. Final Touches:
   Once the stew reaches the desired consistency, discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Conclusion

This slow-cooked beef stew with bone marrow is the epitome of comfort food. The tender meat, infused with rich, spiced broth, creates a meal that’s both hearty and nourishing. Serve it hot with your favorite side dish, and enjoy every spoonful of this deeply satisfying dish. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this stew will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy! 🍲✨