Potjiekos

Potjiekos
Namibia
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 1 kg beef or lamb, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable stock
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Potjiekos Pot

Heat the vegetable oil in a large potjie pot (a traditional cast-iron pot) over medium heat.

Sear the Meat

Add the meat cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, beef or vegetable stock, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Stir everything to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors are well blended. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your meal!