Quiabada is a beloved Bahian classic that transforms humble ingredients into a deeply flavorful feast. This dish centers on tender cubes of boneless shell steak, slowly browned and simmered with aromatic onions, garlic, and ripe tomatoes. The star ingredient, okra, is blanched to remove excess slime before being folded into the rich, reddish sauce. A kick of preserved malagueta peppers provides the signature heat that defines this regional cuisine. The result is a hearty, comforting stew with a perfect balance of meaty depth and vegetable freshness. Serve it hot over creamy Angu (cornmeal porridge) or white rice for an authentic Brazilian dining experience that feels both rustic and elegant.
Quiabada (Beef & Okra Bahian Style
Description
Quiabada is a beloved Bahian classic that transforms humble ingredients into a deeply flavorful feast. This dish centers on tender cubes of boneless shell steak, slowly browned and simmered with aromatic onions, garlic, and ripe tomatoes. The star ingredient, okra, is blanched to remove excess slime before being folded into the rich, reddish sauce. A kick of preserved malagueta peppers provides the signature heat that defines this regional cuisine. The result is a hearty, comforting stew with a perfect balance of meaty depth and vegetable freshness. Serve it hot over creamy Angu (cornmeal porridge) or white rice for an authentic Brazilian dining experience that feels both rustic and elegant.Ingredients
Directions
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Cut the boneless shell steak into 1-inch cubes.
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Peel, seed, and coarsely chop 2 medium-size ripe tomatoes.
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Top, tail, and slice 1 lb okra pods into rounds.
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Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat.
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Add the minced onion and garlic, cooking and stirring until soft and translucent.
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Add the beef cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
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Stir in the chopped tomatoes, minced malagueta peppers, salt, and black pepper to taste.
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Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer until the meat is tender and a reddish sauce has formed, about 7 to 10 minutes.
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Meanwhile, bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil and blanch the okra slices for 3 to 5 minutes.
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Drain the okra well and add it to the skillet with the beef mixture.
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Cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 380.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25.7g40%
- Saturated Fat 8.7g44%
- Cholesterol 93.1mg32%
- Sodium 82.3mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.4g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 0.5g
- Protein 33.1g67%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
