I’m so fortunate to know people from different cultures for many reasons. One of the best reasons is learning about amazing food and food cultures around the world. The first time I had this Seco de Carne, it was prepared for me by Peruvian friends. After tasting it, I thought it might be the best beef stew in the world.
The long simmer of the beef in the cilantro flavored broth is something you have to experience. I have no doubt you’ll feel as I do and make this whenever you crave stew. I’m so happy to be sharing my version of Seco de Carne with you today.
Seco de Carne
Peruvian Beef Stew
Servings 6
Ingredients
- 1 bunch cilantro slightly chopped, stems and all
- 2 cups spinach slightly chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 pounds pounds boneless beef chuck roast cut in 2" pieces
- 1 red onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 tbsp aji amarillo paste
- 2 large potatoes cut in about 2" pieces
- 2 carrots cut in thick slices
- 1 cup green peas
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Put rinsed and chopped cilantro and spinach in the blender and process with one cup water. Reserve.
- Heat the oil in a saucepan over high heat and the beef pieces and sauté until golden brown. Remove from pan and reserve.
- Turn the heat to medium and add the onions, garlic and aji amarillo paste to the sauce pan; stir and let them cook until the onions are soft and translucent stirring often.
- Pour in the cilantro mixture and stir constantly until the water evaporates by half. Add the beef back to the pot.
- Add water enough to cover and simmer over low heat for 2 hours with the lid on. Check often and add more water if necessary.
- When the meat is fork tender add the potatoes, green peas, carrots, salt and pepper to taste; cook uncovered for 15 or 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- The stew is ready when the veggies are cooked and the juice is thickened.
- This dish is usually served with rice and beans.
I love food! I read cookbooks like they were novels. I get giddy in a farmer’s market. I find a chicken in a pot surrounded by carrots, onion, and celery a thing of beauty. My favorite sound is Mmmmmmmm!
That sounds delicious and I think I can get hold of some aji amarillo paste, or I’ll make it. I will defiitely cook this!
You have to have it (aji amarillo) to make this. I had to order it. If you make it, I’d love to hear what you think. I love it. It’s like nothing I’ve had before.