Beef in a pot with tomatoes
Description
The dish is prepared without unnecessary complications. If you don't like prunes but want to cook this dish, you can use another dried fruit, for example, apricots. The finished dish can be served at the table.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
First, let's prepare the prunes. Many people don't like them due to their specific taste, but they are absolutely essential in this dish. Start by rinsing the prunes, then pour boiling water over them and let them soak for 10–15 minutes. (Do not discard the soaking water!) Meanwhile, slice the onion into half-rings, finely chop the garlic, and cut the carrot into thin rounds or half-rings, whichever you prefer. Cut the tomato the same way as the carrot.
- 2
Step 2
Beef meat is most commonly used for this dish. However, you can use not only fillet, and not only beef. Any meat will work, perhaps except chicken. First, wash the meat, dry it with a paper towel, and cut it into portion-sized pieces. Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat it thoroughly, and sear the meat pieces until all the moisture has evaporated. You can add a little salt. Remember to stir constantly, taking care not to burn the meat. Once the meat turns golden brown, transfer it to a cauldron or a saucepan.
- 3
Step 3
In the same oil, first sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and carrots. Next, add the chopped tomato. Sauté for a while until the tomato releases its juice, add a little water, and simmer for 5 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to the pot with the meat, add coriander and nutmeg, season with pepper and salt. Add the prunes, mix well, and place over heat. Sauté for 10 minutes, then top up with the water in which the prunes were soaked, and simmer for one hour.
- 4
Step 4
Make sure the liquid doesn't evaporate completely; as the broth reduces, keep adding more broth and a small amount of vegetable oil to prevent the meat from burning. Before turning off the stove, be sure to check if the meat is done. If it's tender and infused with the flavor of prunes, you can proceed to prepare the side dish.
- 5
Step 5
The cooked meat is very filling and has a rich flavor, so it can be served simply with sliced vegetables or a mild-tasting side dish—rice, pasta, or boiled potatoes.