Just imagine a cozy afternoon, taking a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Edinburgh, breathing in the crisp Scottish air, and feeling inspired to create a hearty and comforting dish that captures the essence of Scotland. The recipe we have for you today reflects the warmth and richness of Scottish cuisine, perfect for a gathering with friends or a quiet meal at home.
**Scotland**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb stewing beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 parsnips, peeled and diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup stout beer
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the stewing beef pieces in batches and brown them on all sides. This step helps to seal in the juices and develop a rich flavor. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced carrots, parsnips, and potatoes to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Sprinkle the vegetables with the all-purpose flour, ensuring everything is coated evenly. This will help thicken the stew as it cooks.
5. Pour in the beef broth and stout beer, stirring well to combine. These liquids will infuse the stew with depth and richness.
6. Stir in the tomato paste, bay leaves, and the seared beef, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew gently simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. Give the stew a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Discard the bay leaves before serving.
9. Ladle the comforting Scottish stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying meal.
This robust and flavorful Scotland-inspired stew is a delightful way to bring a taste of the Scottish Highlands into your own home. Serve it on a chilly evening or share it with friends and family for a heartwarming dining experience that celebrates the richness of Scottish cuisine. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish, savoring each delicious bite as you transport yourself to the picturesque landscapes of Scotland through food.
