Zambia beef stew is a beloved dish that embodies the heart and soul of Zambian cuisine. This flavorful and comforting stew showcases the rich culinary heritage of Zambia, combining tender beef, aromatic spices, and wholesome vegetables. In this article, we will share an authentic Zambia beef stew recipe that will guide you through the process of creating a hearty and delicious dish that captures the essence of Zambian flavors.

Ingredients:

500 grams beef, cut into cubes

2 onions, finely chopped

3 cloves of garlic, minced

2 tomatoes, chopped

2 carrots, peeled and diced

2 potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons cooking oil

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon ground paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

3 cups beef broth

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Brown the beef

Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step helps seal in the juices and adds flavor to the stew. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the onions and garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and translucent, picking up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Add the tomatoes and spices

Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to break down. Stir in the tomato paste, ground paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the onions and tomatoes with the spices.

Step 4: Simmer the beef stew

Return the browned beef to the pot and stir it into the onion and tomato mixture. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring that the beef is covered. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and flavorful.

Step 5: Add the vegetables

Add the diced carrots, cubed potatoes, and green beans to the pot. Stir them into the stew and continue simmering for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness.

Step 6: Adjust the seasoning and serve

Taste the Zambia beef stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for added freshness and visual appeal.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Transfer the Zambia beef stew to serving bowls or plates. This hearty dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with Nshima (maize meal), rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Optional: Serving Suggestions

Accompany the Zambia beef stew with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added richness.

With this authentic Zambia beef stew recipe, you can immerse yourself in the rich flavors and culinary heritage of Zambia. This hearty and comforting stew brings together tender beef, aromatic spices, and wholesome vegetables for a truly satisfying meal. Prepare this traditional Zambian dish in your own kitchen and experience the warmth and deliciousness of Zambia beef stew, a culinary delight that will transport you to the heart of Zambian cuisine.