Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of the Caucasus Mountains with this mouthwatering Khalia Georgian Spicy Beef Stew! If you're craving a dish that combines mind-blowing spices, tender beef, and a rich, robust sauce that will make your dinner guests beg for seconds, you've just hit the recipe jackpot. This isn't just another stew – it's a flavor explosion that will revolutionize your home cooking and introduce you to the bold, passionate cuisine of Georgia.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: Georgian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cutting beef into 1-inch cubes, finely chopping onion, and mincing garlic. Pat beef dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Season beef cubes generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder, ensuring even coating of spices.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until oil shimmers and begins to ripple.
- Add beef cubes in batches, avoiding overcrowding, and brown meat on all sides until deep golden-brown color develops, approximately 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove browned meat and set aside.
- In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add chopped onions. Sauté until translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Return browned beef to the pot and add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer slowly for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check meat tenderness; continue cooking if needed until beef is fork-tender and sauce has thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as desired.
- Let stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together completely.
- Serve hot, traditionally accompanied by bread or over steamed rice to absorb the rich, spicy sauce.
Tips
- Meat Selection Matters: Choose a well-marbled beef cut like chuck roast or beef shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Browning is Key: Take your time when browning the meat. Don't rush this step – those golden-brown edges create deep, complex flavors that make this stew extraordinary.
- Spice Control: Adjust the chili powder and paprika to match your heat tolerance. Georgian cuisine loves bold flavors, but you can customize the spice level.
- Low and Slow is the Motto: Patience is crucial. The long, slow simmering breaks down tough meat fibers and allows spices to fully develop their incredible depth.
- Rest Time is Crucial: Always let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken naturally.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread, fluffy rice, or traditional Georgian bread (Shoti) to soak up the incredible sauce.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance for even more developed flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
