Mexican-Style Sous Vide Stew Beef with Squash
What Started it all:
Stew Beef, Squash, olive oil, sous vide
This hearty Mexican-inspired dish brings together tender, flavorful beef and fresh, seasonal squash. Using the sous vide method ensures the beef is cooked to perfection, while a touch of olive oil and vibrant spices bring everything together beautifully. Perfect for a family meal, this recipe serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) stew beef
- 2 medium-sized squash (such as zucchini or butternut), chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Season the stew beef with salt, pepper, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Place the seasoned beef into a sous vide bag, add minced garlic, and seal the bag.
- Sous Vide Cooking: Preheat the sous vide machine to 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium. Submerge the sealed bag in the water bath and cook for 24 hours.
- Prepare the Squash: About 30 minutes before the beef is done, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped squash to the skillet and sauté until tender and lightly browned, about 10-12 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Once the beef is done, remove it from the sous vide bag and pat it dry with paper towels. Quickly sear the beef in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil until browned on all sides, about 1-2 minutes. Combine the seared beef with the sautéed squash in a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side if desired.
Gather your family around and enjoy this delicious, nutritious meal together. The combination of tender beef and fresh squash, enhanced with aromatic spices, makes for a delightful and healthy eating experience. Enjoy!