Beef and Lentil Stew

Ingredients and Weight:

• Beef Stew Meat: 1 pound (454g)
• Lentils: 1 cup (240ml)
• Onion: 1 large (about 200g)
• Carrots: 2 medium (about 150g)
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves
• Beef broth or stock: 3 cups (720ml)
• Tomato paste: 3 tablespoons
• Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or according to taste)
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon (or according to taste)
• Cooking oil or butter: 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (slow cooker) or 2 hours (stove-top)

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot or slow cooker, heat the cooking oil or butter on medium-high heat.
2. Cube the beef into small pieces and brown it in the pot. This will help enhance the flavor.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until the onion is soft.
4. Stir in the lentils and continue to cook for a minute or two.
5. Pour in the beef broth or stock, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-4 hours (depending on your cooking method).
7. Add the chopped carrots about 30 minutes before the end of cooking time.
8. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve hot with your choice of side dish.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)

• Calories: 300-400 (depending on cooking method and serving size)
• Protein: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g (mostly from lentils)
• Fat: 15-20g (mostly from beef and cooking oil)

Dish Characteristics:

• This is a hearty stew that is rich in flavor and texture. The lentils add a unique and nutritious element to the traditional beef stew.
• The dish is suitable for colder weather as it provides warmth and comfort.
• The preparation is straightforward and the dish can be made in advance, making it ideal for meal prep or special occasions.

User Comments:

1. "This stew was delicious! The lentils added a unique flavor and texture that I really enjoyed." - John Doe, New York.
2. "I made this dish for my family on a cold winter night. It was perfect! Everyone loved it." - Jane Smith, Texas.
3. "I used a slow cooker for this recipe and it was so easy to make. The stew was very flavorful and tender." - Robert Brown, California.

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use high-quality beef broth or stock to enhance the flavor of the stew.
• Brown the beef before adding other ingredients to enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference. Some people may prefer more salt or pepper than others.