#164 Argentina's Carbonada Criolla

It is the sweetness of this Argentinian Beef Stew that makes it different. The sugar comes from the dried fruits, and while I like it, it may not be for every one. It was good to eat something different, it was delicious and  it's a perfect dish for someone who loves meat like me! A co-worker from Peru told me that Argentinian beef is the best in the world! So I am going to explore more on how they prepare their beef. As for this dish, it was easy to make, the beef was tender and a little bit of balancing on the sugar and pepper, it  was delicious. Quick note, since I love eating zucchini raw, I turned the stove off after adding it, and let the heat from the cooked meat and potatoes cook it. If you like it cooked thoroughly, simmer it for another 5 minutes. 

ARGENTINIAN BEEF STEW- CARBONADA CRIOLLA

Ingredients:

1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 green pepper, chopped
1/3 cup olive oil
1.5 pounds chuck roast, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 can stewed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 white potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large winter squash, peeled and cubed
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1 cup dried peaches
1/2 cup raisins
salt and pepper to taste 

Directions:

1. In a heavy pot, like a dutch oven, heat olive oil.
2. Brown beef in separate batches. Set aside.
3. In the same pot, and oil, cook tomatoes, pepper, onion, and garlic until soft.
4. Add bay leaves, oregano and chicken stock. Bring to a boil.
5. Add the browned beef, cover and simmer until meat is tender.
6. Add potatoes, dried apricots, dried peaches and raisins, simmer for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through.
7. Stir in zucchini, turn off heat, cover until the vegetables are cooked.
8. Enjoy it hot.

                 recipe adapted from here 

#95 Argentina's Burger with Chimichurri Sauce

This was very easy to make. With only four ingredients, it was almost fail proof for me. We loved it very much. The big flavor comes from Cumin. The meat flavored with cumin + Chimichurri = a glorious combination, it did not disappoint!

BURGER (Argentine Style)

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

salt and pepper

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions:

1. Put the ground beef into the medium bowl and sprinkle with the cumin. Season with salt and pepper. Using your hands, gently mix until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each piece into a 4-inch patty.
3. Grill until cooked as desired. Serve with lettuce, onions, and if you like, pita bread and tomatoes. 

 Recipe adapted from Abigail Johnson Dodge

It was a great dinner. :)

#94 Chimichurri

Ah, this green herb sauce was too good! Our first time, and definitely not the last. This delicious and simple sauce originated in Argentina  is served for meats or on the side for just about everything. :)

CHIMICHURRI 

Ingredients:

3/4 cup packed fresh parsley
3/4 cup packed fresh cilantro
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 garlic clove
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

1. Put all ingredients in a food processor or blender. Process until blended and the herbs are finely chopped, about 1 minute. Pour into small bowl and refrigerate.

Recipe adapted from Abigail Johnson Dodge

Nunca es tarde cuando la dicha es buena. :)