Cymru Clove Bake

The Cymru Clove Bake is a traditional Welsh dish, deeply rooted in the rich culinary history of Wales. Known for its bold flavors and comforting warmth, this dish incorporates the earthy aroma of cloves with a hearty blend of ingredients, offering a taste of Welsh heritage with every bite. Often served during festive occasions, the dish celebrates the harmonious blend of spices that has been passed down through generations.

History and Origin

The Cymru Clove Bake has its origins in the heart of Wales, where local communities would gather for special occasions and share meals that reflected their collective traditions. The use of cloves in savory dishes was popularized during the Middle Ages, when spices were a symbol of wealth and exotic flavor. Over time, these spices were integrated into local cuisine, giving birth to unique dishes such as the Cymru Clove Bake. The recipe has been cherished and modified through time, yet its essentials remain unchanged, symbolizing the resilience and creativity of Welsh cooking traditions.

Ingredients

• Cloves - 1 teaspoon, ground
• Beef - 500g, cubed
• Potatoes - 3 large, diced
• Onions - 2 medium, sliced
• Carrots - 3, chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon, dried
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Beef broth - 1 cup
• Bay leaves - 2

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Ensure that the beef is cubed uniformly to guarantee even cooking. Dice the onions and chop the carrots into bite-sized pieces. Peel and dice the potatoes to your desired size. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.

Step 2: Marinating the Beef

In a bowl, mix the cubed beef with olive oil, ground cloves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). In an oven-proof casserole dish, layer the marinated beef at the base. Add in the sliced onions, chopped carrots, minced garlic, and diced potatoes. Pour in the beef broth and tuck in the bay leaves.

Cooking Process

Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Set a timer for 1.5 hours. This slow-cooking process will allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.

Checking and Serving

After the cooking time is up, remove the dish from the oven. Carefully lift the lid or foil and check if the beef is fork-tender and that the potatoes are cooked through. If needed, return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Serve the Cymru Clove Bake hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.

How to Enjoy

The Cymru Clove Bake is best enjoyed communally, with family or friends gathered around the table. Complement the meal with a glass of rich, red wine or a hearty ale to accentuate the earthy flavors of the cloves and the tender beef. As you savor each mouthful, allow the aromatic spices and succulent meat to transport you to the lush landscapes of Wales, all while enjoying the company of your loved ones.