Beef estofado

Method

• step 1

  Season the beef and mix with the chilli paste. Heat 1 tbsp oil in an ovenproof pan and fry the beef over a medium-high heat until evenly browned on all sides. You’ll need to do this in batches and the pan should be hot enough to ensure the beef does not boil. Remove the beef to a bowl and heat the oven to 160C/140C fan/gas 3.

• step 2

  Turn the heat down to medium, add another 1 tbsp oil and cook the onions and garlic for about 8-10 mins until caramelised. Pour in the beer and scrape up any browned bits using a wooden spoon. Return the beef to the pan and stir well. Add the bay leaves, chopped herbs, spices and dried mint, and slowly cook until the liquid has evaporated. Pour in the stock and bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook in the oven for 1 hr.

• step 3

  Remove the stew from the oven and continue to cook, uncovered, on the hob over a low heat for 1 hr or until slightly reduced. Add the potatoes and cook for 15-20 mins. Check the beef and potatoes are tender, then remove from the heat and leave to rest, covered.

• step 4

  Bring a small pan of water to the boil and prepare a bowl of iced water. Drop the tomatoes into the boiling water for 20 seconds, then plunge into the cold water using a slotted spoon. Leave to cool, then peel away the skins.

• step 5

  Stir the ají amarillo paste into the stew and top with the tomatoes, beans and chopped herbs.