Seco de Carne: Authentic Peruvian Beef Stew

beef

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner and more affordable.

beer

🥗Healthier: non-alcoholic beer

💰Cheaper: chicken broth

Non-alcoholic beer maintains flavor without alcohol.

aji amarillo

🥗Healthier: bell pepper

💰Cheaper: jalapeño

Bell pepper provides sweetness and color.

cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: spinach

Parsley offers a similar fresh flavor.

Chop the onion.

Make the braising liquid with beef stock and cilantro, blending until smooth.

Sear the beef in batches in vegetable oil over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.

Lower the temperature and add chopped onions to sweat for 4-5 minutes until softened.

Add minced garlic and cook for 20-30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in aji amarillo paste, sea salt, cumin, and black pepper, mixing well.

Pour in the prepared braising liquid and beer, ensuring the meat is submerged.

Cover and place in the oven at 140°C for 2 to 2.5 hours, checking every hour until fork tender.

After 1 hour 20 minutes, check the stew and add frozen peas, stirring them in to defrost.

Let the peas cook for 5-10 minutes in the stew before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: