Slow pilaf with beef

Slow-cooked pilaf with beef is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Using a slow cooker or Dutch oven allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the beef tender. Here’s a simple recipe for Slow-Cooked Pilaf with Beef:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs (700g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground turmeric (for color)
• ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the beef

1. Heat oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Brown beef: Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

1. Cook onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

Step 3: Assemble in the slow cooker

1. Combine ingredients: In a slow cooker, combine the browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), carrots, bell pepper, frozen peas (if using), cumin, paprika, turmeric, thyme (or rosemary), salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well: Stir everything together to ensure the rice and beef are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Cook

1. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the rice is cooked through.

Step 5: Finish and serve

1. Check seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Serving suggestions:

Serve this slow-cooked pilaf with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad. The pilaf is hearty and flavorful on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

Enjoy your delicious, slow-cooked beef pilaf!