Are you looking for a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights at home? Bauerntopf, a traditional German farmer’s casserole, is just the recipe you need. Packed with layers of tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and rich gravy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Bauerntopf that will fill your home with warm, savory aromas.
**Bauerntopf Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. **Brown the Beef:** In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. **Sauté the Aromatics:** Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for a few minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
4. **Add the Vegetables:** Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
5. **Season and Simmer:** Season the mixture with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the tomato paste and stir until everything is well combined. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
6. **Assemble the Bauerntopf:** Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the frozen peas over the top.
7. **Bake:** Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is slightly golden and bubbly.
8. **Serve:** Once out of the oven, let the Bauerntopf cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy this Bauerntopf hot out of the oven with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. The layers of flavors in this dish, from the savory beef to the tender vegetables, will surely make it a go-to recipe for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. This Bauerntopf is not only delicious but also a great way to bring everyone together around the table for a warm and satisfying meal.
