| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 2 hrs | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 20g | 8g | 25g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 4g | 26g | 1.2g |
The first bite of this Wasabi Beef Stew is always a revelation. There’s something magical about how the wasabi’s gentle heat dances with the earthy flavors of the beef and vegetables. Growing up in Louisiana with French ancestry, I was exposed to a rich culinary tapestry that always celebrated robust, soulful dishes. This recipe, however, takes that comfort food tradition and introduces a zesty twist that keeps your taste buds guessing.
A Fusion of Comfort and Kick
The blend of traditional beef stew ingredients with the unexpected zing of wasabi paste is why I keep coming back to this dish. The wasabi isn’t overpowering; it’s just right. It lifts the deep, savory notes of the beef and broth, enhancing the dish rather than overshadowing it. The heartiness of the potatoes, carrots, and butternut squash adds layers of texture and flavor, making every bite a rich, satisfying adventure. It’s somewhat akin to dishes like Japanese curry or even a traditional French Boeuf Bourguignon but with an enticingly spicy twist.
Health Benefits in Every Bowl
It’s not just the taste that makes this dish a favorite—it’s also packed with nutritious vegetables. Carrots and butternut squash are loaded with beta-carotene and essential vitamins, while celery and green peas offer a good dose of fiber. The wasabi, often praised for its antibacterial properties and ability to potentially improve circulation, adds an unexpected health boost to this already nutrient-rich stew. Opting for beef as a protein source ensures you get vital nutrients like iron and zinc, which are crucial for maintaining energy and a healthy immune system.
For those mindful of dietary habits, consider serving this dish with a lighter side like a simple green salad or some steamed rice to soak up that delicious broth. It could also match wonderfully with a side of glazed carrots to complement the stew’s savory and slightly sweet profile.
In each spoonful of Wasabi Beef Stew, there’s a story that merges my Louisiana roots with my French culinary background, peppered with an exciting flare of wasabi-inspired creativity. It’s a bowl of comfort with a kick, a mélange of flavors that I’m sure you’ll find as irresistible as I do.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp wasabi paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 cups peeled and cubed potatoes
- 2 cups chopped celery
- 1 cup cubed butternut squash
- 1 cup green peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step One
Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step Two
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Three
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and wasabi paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step Four
Add the beef broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
Step Five
Stir in the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped celery, and cubed butternut squash. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
Step Six
About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the green peas and continue to simmer until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Seven
Garnish the Wasabi Beef Stew with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
