Teresa's Recipes
Olla de Carne
Olla de Carne is a cherished Costa Rican beef stew that envelops you in a warm, hearty embrace with every spoonful. This dish is a colorful tapestry of tender beef and a vibrant assortment of vegetables, simmered to perfection in a fragrant broth. Traditionally prepared in rural Costa Rican kitchens, Olla de Carne is often served during family gatherings and festive occasions, offering a taste of home and history in each bite. The combination of fresh herbs, hearty ingredients, and the love infused during cooking creates a meal that nourishes both body and soul, making it a timeless favorite. Perfect for chilly days, this stew will leave you feeling comforted and satisfied.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds, cut into large chunks Beef chuck or shank
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 large, chopped Onion
- 1/2 cup, chopped (plus more for garnish) Fresh cilantro
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 8 cups (or enough to cover the ingredients) Water
- 2 medium, peeled and cut into chunks Potatoes
- 2 medium, sliced Carrots
- 1, peeled and cut into chunks Chayote squash
- 2 ears, cut into thirds Corn
- 1 pound, peeled and cut into chunks Yucca (cassava)
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the beef chunks, minced garlic, chopped onion, cilantro, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in enough water to cover all the ingredients by at least an inch, approximately 8 cups.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart.
- After the beef has cooked, add the potatoes, carrots, chayote, corn, and yucca to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
- Continue to simmer for another hour, or until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider searing the beef chunks in the pot before adding the water.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans can make great additions.
- Serve with a side of warm tortillas or rice to soak up the delicious broth.