| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 2.5 hours | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 600 | 40g | 16g | 28g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 5g | 45g | 1g |
When one speaks of New England cuisine, the spotlight is often quite predictably on favorites like clam chowder or lobster rolls. However, today I’d like to share with you a slightly atypical dish, but on this occasion, equally delicious: Braised Beef with Gnetum. Enriched with the wonderful flavors of this somewhat exotic vegetable, it’s a recipe that resonates deeply with my rich culinary love-affair; a love-affair that’s been largely nurtured by the diverse and gorgeous food landscape of my hometown, Portland, Maine.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
The humble Gnetum forms the star ingredient in this delectable dish. This unassuming leafy green is a nutrient-dense powerhouse, brimming with a treasure trove of vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and a host of essential minerals. It’s an immune booster and a great addition to your diet if you’re looking to maintain a healthy vision and robust skin.
Teamed with beef, a fantastic source of protein, and a variety of other vibrant vegetables, this dish provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. Who said gourmet meals can’t be good for your health?
A Sublime Culinary Journey
Cooking this Braised Beef with Gnetum is akin to embarking upon an aromatic journey. The browning of onions and garlic, followed by the simmering of beef with Asian-inspired spices and condiments, sets the sensory stage for an unforgettable feast. As the dish slowly comes together, the cozy warmth of my kitchen takes me back to my childhood days, when I would watch my mother magically convert simple ingredients into mouth-watering delicacies.
This recipe, with its intricate flavor palette, has echoes of the Asian slow-cooked beef stew Nikujaga. I find that it pairs perfectly with a side of jasmine rice or even some fluffy garlic mashed potatoes.
Braised Beef with Gnetum might not be a typical New England dish, but it’s a testament to the universal beauty of cooking: the power to bring ingredients, cultures, and people together. Whether shared over a weekday family dinner with Erin and Samantha, or served at a get-together with friends, it’s a gourmet comfort dish that’s sure to please everyone around the table.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
- 1 cup Gnetum leaves
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3 large carrots, cut into chunks
- 1 cup baby corn
- 2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by seasoning the beef with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat up the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until they are browned. You may need to do this in batches. Once done, set the beef aside.
Step Two
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step Three
Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, and oyster sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine these ingredients.
Step Four
Return the beef to the pot, along with the dried thyme and rosemary. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until the beef is well coated with the sauce.
Step Five
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step Six
After the beef is tender, add the carrots, bell peppers, baby corn, and Gnetum leaves to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step Seven
Finally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, mix together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the pot and let it simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce has thickened.
This delicious Braised Beef with Gnetum is now ready to be served. Enjoy it with a side of rice for a complete meal.
