I recently discovered the delicious and comforting dish that is za’atar beef stew. This Middle Eastern-inspired stew is made with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful blend of spices, including the star ingredient, za’atar. It is keto-friendly, so if you’re on this diet you can savor it without any problem.
Za’atar is a versatile spice blend that is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It typically includes dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, sumac, and sesame seeds. The combination of these spices creates a unique and complex flavor that is both earthy and tangy. When added to beef stew, it creates a rich and aromatic broth that is simply irresistible.
This stew is perfect for chilly evenings when you want something warm and comforting. It’s also a great way to switch up your usual beef stew recipe and try something new. Whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or just looking for a new twist on an old classic, this beef stew is worth a try.
One weekend, my parents and I decided to have lunch at a Middle Eastern restaurant in Denver. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the young Middle Eastern waiter was very friendly and attentive. As we were enjoying our meal, we noticed that a protest or demonstration was taking place near the restaurant. The noise and commotion were quite distracting, but we tried to focus on our food and conversation.
During our meal, the waiter brought a delicious beef stew to our table for us to taste. It was rich, flavorful, and had a unique Middle Eastern twist to it. We were all impressed by the dish and wanted to know more about it. So, I asked the waiter about the recipe, and he informed me that it was a za’atar beef stew.
After the commotion outside settled down, I approached the restaurant chef and requested the recipe. To my surprise, he agreed to give it to me. The recipe contained beef chuck roast, turnips, water, radishes, carrots, za’atar spice blend, xanthan, sea salt, fresh thyme, and sumac.
With the recipe in hand, I decided to recreate the dish at home. It turned out to be a hit with my family and friends, and I have been making it ever since. The za’atar spice blend adds a unique and delicious flavor to the beef stew, and the vegetables make it a wholesome and nutritious meal.
Accompanied Dishes
When I make this stew, I like to pair it with dishes that complement its flavors and textures. Here are some of my favorite dishes to serve alongside this hearty stew:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a crispy texture that pairs well with the tender beef in the stew. I like to roast a mix of root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, along with some Brussels sprouts or cauliflower for a variety of flavors and textures.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you’re following a keto diet, cauliflower rice is a great alternative to regular rice. It has a similar texture and can be flavored with herbs and spices to complement the flavors in the stew.
- Kale Salad: A simple kale salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the stew. I like to add some sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt on top of the stew adds a tangy creaminess that balances out the spices in the stew. Plus, it’s high in protein and low in carbs, making it a great addition to a keto-friendly meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of beef chuck roast
- 1 to 1-½ pounds of turnips
- 4 to 5 cups of water
- 1 bunch of radishes
- 4 large carrots
- ¼ cup of za’atar spice blend
- ⅛ teaspoon of xanthan
- 4 teaspoons of sea salt
- fresh thyme and sumac
How To Make Za’atar Beef Stew?
Instant Pot Method
When using an Instant Pot, add the beef to the insert pot and press the “Stew” button. Then, let it cook for 35 minutes. When the cooking time ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 25 minutes, then do a QPR.
Slow-cook Oven Bake Method
For the slow-cook oven bake method, preheat the oven to 350° and add the beef to a pot. Then, add water and za’atar and stir slightly to mix, so the herbs are wetted. If you’re making the one-pot version, add the veggies and optional beans to the pot and top all with whole root veggies. Cover it with a tight-fitting lid and cook it for 30 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 325° and cook for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
Stovetop Method
To make the stew on the stovetop, assemble the pot the same way as outlined above for the oven method. Use the full 5 cups of water and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Afterward, let it simmer on medium-low heat for 2 to 2-½ hours, or until the meat reaches a tender consistency. Make sure the heat is suitable for a slow simmer.
Slow Cooker Method
When using a slow cooker, set up the pot in the same manner as described previously for the oven approach. Use the full 5 cups of water and cover it with a lid. Then, cook on low heat for 8 to 12 hours, until the meat is very tender. Remove cassava or turnips once they’re tender, about 6 hours, and set them aside while the stew finishes cooking.
Thickening
To thicken the stew, remove the cassava root or turnips to a cutting board and cut them into bite-size cubes. Then, set them aside. In my main stew pot, move the meat to the outer edges so you can easily pour thickener into the center of the pot and be able to whisk it in.
To add thickener, whisk in xanthan while already whisking. After whisking vigorously for about 30 seconds, you’ll notice the stew visibly thickening. At this point, your stew base is complete and ready to be served.
Finally, incorporate the chopped cassava or turnips along with the roasted root vegetables or any other vegetables you’ve prepared back into the mixture. Also, optionally garnish with fresh thyme and a sprinkling of sumac.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Always make a big batch of za’atar beef stew so you can enjoy it for a few days. Here are some tips for storing and reheating the stew:
- Let the stew cool down before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can store it for up to 3 days.
- To reheat the stew, you can use a microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, place the stew in a microwave-safe container and heat it for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring occasionally. If using a stovetop, place the stew in a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through.
- If the stew is too thick after reheating, you can add some water or broth to thin it out.
- You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Let it cool down before storing it in a freezer-safe container. To thaw the stew, place it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Reheat it using the same method as above.
Nutritional Information
As someone who is health-conscious, I always like to know what I’m putting into my body. That’s why I’ve included some nutritional information about this stew.
First off, beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. It’s also high in iron, which helps transport oxygen throughout the body. One serving of beef stew contains about 25 grams of protein and 10% of your daily recommended iron intake.
Za’atar, a spice blend used in the stew, is made up of dried herbs like thyme, oregano, and marjoram, which are all rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases.
In terms of calories, one serving of the stew contains around 350 calories. While this may seem high, it’s important to remember that calories are not inherently bad. Our bodies need calories for energy, and it’s all about finding the right balance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, za’atar beef stew is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting.
This recipe is that it is incredibly versatile and this is one of the best things about it. You can use any type of beef that you prefer, and you have the flexibility to include or swap out various vegetables based on what’s available to you. Additionally, the spices in this dish can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you like things spicy, you can add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. If you prefer things milder, you can reduce the amount of za’atar or omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
Another great thing about this recipe is that it is relatively easy to make. While the stew does require some time to simmer on the stove, most of the prep work is fairly simple. Chopping vegetables and browning meat are the main tasks, and both can be done relatively quickly.
Overall, I highly recommend giving za’atar beef stew a try. It’s a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for fall and winter. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce yourself to the wonderful world of za’atar, a spice blend that is sure to become a staple in your pantry.
Did you know that keto mafroukeh is the perfect dessert for this stew?
Get the recipe now (by clicking the image below):