Tas Kebab Recipe

Tas Kebab is a classic dish from Turkish cuisine, combining tender beef with vegetables in a rich and flavorful sauce. It is often served with rice or mashed potatoes, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a traditional recipe for making Tas Kebab at home:

Ingredients:

• 500 grams beef (cubed)
• 2 medium onions (chopped)
• 2 medium carrots (chopped)
• 2 potatoes (cubed)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon pepper paste (optional)
• 1 cup hot water or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the meat: Heat the olive oil or butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and sauté until they release their juice and begin to brown. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
2. Cook the onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Cook until the onions soften and become translucent.
3. Add the tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste (and pepper paste, if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
4. Return the beef to the pot: Add the browned beef back into the pot. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and thyme. Mix everything well.
5. Add the broth: Pour in the hot water or beef broth and add the bay leaf (if using). Cover the pot and cook on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
6. Add the vegetables: Once the meat is almost cooked, add the chopped carrots to the pot and cook for another 10 minutes. Then add the cubed potatoes and cook until all the vegetables are tender.
7. Check the consistency: If the stew becomes too thick, you can add a little more hot water or broth. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve: Tas Kebab is typically served with rice, bulgur pilaf, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Tas Kebab!