How To Make Chinese Style Beef and Potatoe Stew

The Rich Tradition of Chinese Beef and Potato Stew

Chinese cuisine, known for its diverse flavors and rich history, offers numerous hearty dishes that comfort and satisfy.

Beef and Potatoe Stew

Recipe by Cinnamon GrayCourse: Beef, Stew

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

20

minutes

Calories

245

kcal

Ingredients

• 10 cubes lump sugar

• 400g diced beef

• 3 large potatoes chopped into cubes

• 1 tbsp dark soy

• 1 tbsp light soy

• 2 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp 13 spice seasoning

• 1 tsp chicken seasoning

• 4 anis stars

• 4 dried bay leaf

• 2 spring onion

• 5 thin slice’s fresh ginger

Directions

• Pre-heat shallow pan add lump sugar and break down
• add beff and brown off
• add bay leaf, spring onion, ginger, anis stars
• add light soy, oyster sauce, and ½ pint of water
• place lid and simmer for 30-40 minutes
• add potatoes, 13 spice, chicken season,
• place lid for further 20-30 minutes, adding little water and stirring when needed
• garnish with spring onion

Recipe Video

Notes

• don’t be afraid to experiment!
• serve with rice or noodles, fried egg bread
• watch video leave a comment thanks enjoy!

Among these, the Chinese style beef and potato stew holds a special place. This dish combines tender beef with soft, flavorful potatoes, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that reflect the depth of traditional Chinese culinary practices.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This particular recipe stands out due to its balance of simplicity and depth of flavor. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a stew that’s both robust and comforting. Moreover, the use of Chinese spices and techniques provides a unique twist on a familiar dish, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.

The magic of this stew lies in its seasonings

Preparation of Ingredients

Selecting the Right Cut of Beef

For this stew, choose a cut of beef that becomes tender with slow cooking, such as chuck or brisket. These cuts have enough fat to remain juicy and flavorful after hours of simmering.

Prepping the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into large chunks. This ensures they hold their shape during the long cooking process and absorb the flavors of the stew without becoming mushy.

Chopping Vegetables

Dice the onion finely, and slice the carrot into thick rounds. Mince the garlic and ginger. These aromatics are essential for building the base flavor of the stew.

Marinating the Beef

Importance of Marination

Marinating the beef infuses it with the rich flavors of soy sauce and Shaoxing wine, making each bite savory and tender. It’s a crucial step that shouldn’t be skipped.

Marination Process

Combine the beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cooking Tools and Equipment

Essential Kitchen Tools

Ensure you have a sharp chef’s knife, a sturdy cutting board, and a vegetable peeler. These tools will make the preparation process smooth and efficient.

Recommended Cookware

A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is ideal for this stew. Its ability to retain heat and distribute it evenly ensures the stew cooks perfectly.

Initial Cooking Steps

Browning the Beef

Heat a tablespoon of oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in batches, searing each piece until browned on all sides. This step locks in the meat’s juices and adds a depth of flavor to the stew.

Sautéing Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until they are fragrant and the onion turns translucent. This forms the flavorful base of your stew.

Combining Ingredients

Layering Flavors

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, star anise, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Stir to combine, ensuring the beef is well-coated with the seasonings.

Adding Potatoes

Add the potato chunks and carrot slices to the pot. Stir gently to mix the vegetables with the beef and aromatics.

Simmering the Stew

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

Pour in enough water to cover the beef and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.

Monitoring the Stew

Occasionally check the stew, stirring and adding more water if necessary to prevent it from drying out. The goal is a thick, rich broth that coats the beef and potatoes.

Adjusting Seasoning

Balancing Flavors

Taste the stew towards the end of the cooking time. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed. If the stew is too salty, a bit of sugar can help balance the flavors.

Common Adjustments

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash more soy sauce or a dash of Chinese five-spice powder. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Accompaniments

Serve the beef and potato stew over steamed jasmine rice or with a side of crusty bread. A light, crisp green vegetable, such as bok choy or broccoli, complements the hearty stew perfectly.

Presentation Tips

Garnish the stew with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma that enhances the dish.

Nutritional Benefits

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Beef is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Potatoes provide dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and B6. Together, they create a nutritionally balanced meal.

Nutritional Information

A serving of this stew is not only delicious but also nourishing, offering a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to fuel your body.

Variations and Tips

Regional Variations

Different regions of China may add their unique twist to this stew. Some might include tomatoes for a tangy note, while others might add tofu for additional texture.

Expert Tips for Perfecting the Stew

• For a deeper flavor, marinate the beef overnight.
• Always brown the beef well to enhance the stew’s richness.
• Let the stew sit for a few hours or overnight before serving; the flavors will meld and intensify over time.

In conclusion, making Chinese style beef and potato stew is a delightful culinary adventure. With the right ingredients, careful preparation, and a bit of patience, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with rich, layered flavors. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!