Minas Charcoal Recipe
Introduction to Minas Charcoal
Minas Charcoal is a traditional dish hailing from the historic region of Minas Gerais in Brazil. Known for its rich and hearty flavors, this dish captures the essence of Brazilian culinary heritage. Dating back to the colonial era, the dish was originally prepared by charcoal workers in the mines, using simple ingredients that were accessible in the region.
Ingredients
- Beef - 1 kg
- Onions - 2 large
- Garlic - 4 cloves
- Paprika - 1 tablespoon
- Cumin - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- Tomatoes - 4 medium
- Bell peppers - 2 (one red, one green)
- Parsley - half a bunch
- Coriander - half a bunch
- Beans - 500g
- Water - as needed
Preparation
Preparing the Ingredients
First, finely chop the onions and garlic. Dice the tomatoes and bell peppers. Set these aside in individual bowls as they will be added at different stages of the cooking process.
Cut the beef into bite-sized cubes. It's important to ensure the pieces are evenly sized to promote even cooking. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin.
Preparing the Beans
The beans should be soaked overnight. Drain the beans and boil them in fresh water until they are tender, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours. It is crucial to monitor the beans and keep them from becoming too mushy. Once cooked, drain the beans and set them aside.
Cooking Process
Cooking the Beef
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing them until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent.
Increase the heat to high and add the seasoned beef to the pot. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This browning process is essential as it enhances the flavor of the beef and the overall dish.
Building the Stew
Reduce the heat to medium and add the tomatoes and bell peppers to the pot. Stir to combine everything nicely. Pour in enough water to just cover the beef and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that the beef becomes tender. Remember to check every 30 minutes, stirring and adding more water if necessary.
Adding the Beans
Once the beef is tender, add the cooked beans to the pot. Stir to incorporate them evenly into the stew and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to allow the beans to absorb the flavor of the stew.
Serving Minas Charcoal
Finishing Touches
Prior to serving, chop the parsley and coriander finely and stir them into the stew. This adds a burst of freshness and brightens up the dish beautifully.
Enjoying Minas Charcoal
Serve the Minas Charcoal hot, ideally in a large communal bowl. Traditionally, it can be enjoyed with a side of plain rice or a rustic loaf of bread. This dish pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of Brazilian Caipirinha or a refreshing lemonade on a warm day.
Remember, Minas Charcoal is more than just a meal; it is an experience and a delightful exploration into the flavors of Brazil's rich culinary landscape.