BEEF STEW IN PRESSURE COOKER

A very simple dish to cook in a pressure cooker when you have a lot of other things to do. It just took about 4 to 5 whistles and the stew was ready. I served the beef stew with creamy polenta.

Serves 4

Time: 30-35 minutes

500 to 700 grams beef cubes

3 tbs tomato paste

salt and pepper

1 bay leaf

2 to 3 sprigs of thyme

2 tbs paprika

A pinch or more of chilli flakes

2 big onions sliced

2 garlic cloves crushed

2 cups water

2 tbs oil

Method

Heat the oil in the pressure cooker. Add the onions and the garlic. Cook them till they change the colour. 

Add the beef cubes and cook it along the onions until the beef is all browned and sealed.

Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, salt, thyme, pepper, chilli flakes, paprika and water. Give it a stir and let it bubble up for few minutes.

Then close the lid and let it cook for 30-35 minutes. In case of using a slow cooker, let it cook for 2to 3 hours. When the beef has softened and the stew has thickened, remove from the heat.

I left the stew plain with only beef, but carrots, potatoes or other vegetables can also be added to make it hearty.

Serve it with polenta, crusty bread or rice on the side.