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DINNER

Costa Rican Olla de Carne with Yuca and Corn

This hearty Costa Rican Olla de Carne is a comforting beef and vegetable stew, rich with tender beef, yuca, and sweet corn. It's a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels. Season generously with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

02

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until well-seared. Remove the beef and set aside.

03

Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.

04

Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in 6 cups beef broth, add the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 90 minutes, or until the beef is tender.

05

Add the yuca, corn, and carrots to the pot. Increase heat to medium-low, cover, and continue to simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the yuca and carrots are fork-tender.

06

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

About This Recipe

This hearty Costa Rican Olla de Carne is a comforting beef and vegetable stew, rich with tender beef, yuca, and sweet corn. It's a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner.
Costa Rican Olla de Carne with Yuca and Corn
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For extra flavor, add a bay leaf to the stew during the simmering process and remove before serving. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens the flavors.
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Easy Substitutions

Sweet potatoes or regular potatoes can be used instead of yuca. You can also add other root vegetables like chayote or plantains. For a richer broth, use homemade beef stock.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Olla de Carne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Costa Rican Olla de Carne with a side of white rice to soak up the delicious broth. A dollop of fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a nice fresh touch. Offer a side of warm tortillas for dipping. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the richness of the stew.

Common Mistakes

Not browning the beef sufficiently, which leads to less flavorful stew. Overcooking the vegetables, resulting in a mushy texture; add them later in the cooking process. Not seasoning adequately throughout the cooking process; taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go. Using too much liquid, which can dilute the flavors; start with the recommended amount and add more if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the beef and sauté the aromatics on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the vegetables during the last 1-2 hours.

What is yuca?

Yuca, also known as cassava or manioc, is a starchy root vegetable common in tropical regions. It has a mild flavor and a texture similar to potato when cooked.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
MORE TO KNOW
Browning the beef properly is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors in your stew. Ensure the pot is hot and don't overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the meat instead of searing it. Work in batches if necessary to achieve a good crust on all sides of the beef. This initial step locks in juices and creates a foundation of flavor that permeates the entire dish.
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