Carne Assada (Portuguese Beef Stew)

beef

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner and more affordable than beef.

red wine

🥗Healthier: grape juice

💰Cheaper: cooking wine

Grape juice provides sweetness without alcohol.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers a similar flavor with a higher smoke point.

bay leaves

🥗Healthier: thyme

💰Cheaper: oregano

Thyme and oregano can provide similar aromatic qualities.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Heat olive oil in a large roasting pan over medium heat until shimmering.

Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove the beef and set aside.

Add chopped onions and garlic to the pan; sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in paprika and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up any browned bits, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Return the beef to the pan and add bay leaves, carrots, and potatoes.

Pour in enough water to cover the bottom of the pan, then cover with foil.

Roast in the oven for 1.5-2 hours, basting occasionally, until tender.

Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to brown the meat.

Let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon juice before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: