Czech Beef Stew With Gherkins
Description
This hearty Czech-inspired stew offers a wonderful balance of savory richness and bright acidity. Tender chunks of beef are slow-simmered with crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic paprika until fork-tender. The addition of sweet gherkins provides a unique tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness of the meat and broth. It is a comforting, robust dish perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep or leftovers. Serve alongside crusty bread or boiled potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal that feels both rustic and elegant.Ingredients
Directions
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Cut the bacon into 1-inch pieces and fry in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven until crisp.
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Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
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Season the beef chunks generously with salt and black pepper.
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Brown the beef in the remaining bacon drippings in batches to avoid overcrowding, then remove and set aside.
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Add butter to the pot if needed and saut&# 195;© sliced onions until soft and translucent.
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Add mushrooms and cook until browned and any released liquid has evaporated.
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Stir in paprika and cook for one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Pour in the dry red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
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Return the beef and bacon to the pot, then add the beef broth.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours until beef is tender.
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Add the halved gherkins during the last 20 minutes of cooking to warm through without losing their crunch.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2784.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 186.1g287%
- Saturated Fat 68.9g345%
- Cholesterol 623.2mg208%
- Sodium 3924.3mg164%
- Total Carbohydrate 2.8g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 1.0g
- Protein 251.1g503%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
czech, beef, stew, gherkins, pickles, bacon, mushrooms, paprika, slow-cooked, comfort-food, hearty, traditional, dinner, main-course, braised, onion, garlic, red-wine, broth, family-style