Flemish beef stew

2014-09-16 a.o. dates

aka stoverij, stoofvlees, karbonade(n), carbonnade(s).

This very flavorful, dark brown stew with dark beer and prunes is a traditional Flemish recipe. Just like with Steak & Fries, the Flemish take enormous pride in their carbonnade. Strictly spoken, karbonade isn't chuck but a cut off the back, possibly closer to what they sell in the US as pre-cut "stew meat."

The dark (Belgian) beer adds to the flavor and color of the stew.
The prunes sweeten the sauce and turn it almost black.
Both are optional, but without them, it’s just an ordinary beef stew.

Leffe dark is the only dark Belgian beer I can get here in Deming, NM, and often only on special order.
For lack of the real thing, Guinness extra stout will do.

INGREDIENTS

This is what you need for 6-8 servings:

2.5 lbs. chuck roast
1 bottle dark Belgian beer
e.g. Leffe dark
S&P
optional:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 lb. pitted prunes or raisins
- bay leaf, peppercorn in a tea ball.

Pic1: Flemish beef stew with prunes, crinkle fries

Directions

Pic2: brown the meat
Pic3: add beer, prunes, water
Pic4: stew

Cut the meat into chunks, approximately one by one by two inches. (Pic1)
In a medium skillet, heat some oil, brown the onions.
Brown the meat in small batches. When done, transfer all back to the pot.
Add the beer.
Optional:
- Also add the prunes.
Add some water until the meat is mostly covered but not completely submerged.
Add S&P and your favorite spices to taste.
Bring to a boil. Cover and simmer over low heat 2-3 hrs.
The meat should be quite tender, but still firm enough that it doesn't fall apart.
Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
The prunes like to stick to the bottom and burn.
Adjust seasoning.
Serve and enjoy.

Serving suggestions:

Add some potatoes about 20 minutes before the stew will be ready.
Hear the purists cry 'Sacrilege!'
Serve with fries and sautéed mushrooms.

A few variations

various dates

Purists might claim it's not the real thing, but you don't have to stick to the letter of the book. I often add the vegetables to the stew pot. Feel free to improvise and put your personal stamp on that meal.

Pic5: with bread
Pic6: with red potatoes ...
Pic7: ... a.o. vegetables

with fries

Pic8: Flemish culinary heritage - internet picture
Pic9: as sold by street vendors - internet picture
Pic10: mine

Pic11-13: all mine

with fries

See also: Deming, NM gardens, animals and more and avemariasongs.org

See also: Deming, NM gardens, animals and more
and avemariasongs.org