Are you looking for a delicious and hearty dish to warm you up during colder months? Look no further than 'Жаркое: Zharkoye', a traditional Ukrainian stew made with beef and potatoes. This comforting and flavorful dish is easy to make and is sure to become a family favorite.
What is Zharkoye?
Zharkoye (Жаркое) is a traditional Ukrainian beef and potato stew, beloved for its hearty, comforting flavors. The name "zharkoye" translates to "roasted" or "fried," referring to the technique of browning the meat before simmering it in a flavorful broth. This dish is often served in a clay pot, which helps retain its warmth. While simple in its ingredients, Zharkoye is rich in taste, making it a staple of Ukrainian winter cuisine. It’s typically enjoyed with sour cream and fresh herbs, making it a perfect comfort food during colder months.
Why You’ll Love This Ukrainian Stew
This dish is perfect for the colder months when you need something warming and filling. The combination of tender beef, soft potatoes, and rich broth makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you're looking for a cozy family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this stew is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection.
My First Experience with Zharkoye
Before we dive into the recipe, let me share a story about my first encounter with this dish. Back in school, a Ukrainian classmate introduced me to Zharkoye. It was a snowy day, and after a long day of classes, this stew was exactly what I needed. The beef was so tender, the potatoes perfectly cooked, and the sauce was rich and well-seasoned. With a dollop of sour cream on top, it was absolutely heavenly.
After graduating, I tried recreating the dish, but I couldn’t quite get the flavor right. It didn’t even come close to the one I remembered, and I felt so disappointed, thinking I’d never be able to make it myself.
A few years later, I traveled to Ukraine for a friend’s wedding. I was excited to not only explore the country but also to try Zharkoye again. Ukraine turned out to be beautiful, with its unique culture, stunning architecture, and amazing food—everything I tasted was flavorful and wholesome. At a local restaurant, I spotted Zharkoye on the menu and eagerly ordered it. Served in a traditional clay pot that kept it warm, the stew was just as hearty and delicious as I remembered. I was so thrilled to finally enjoy it again after all those years. Just thinking about it now makes me want to return to Ukraine!
When I got home, I was determined to give the recipe another shot. After trying several versions, I finally found one that matched the flavor I’d fallen in love with. Now, I’m excited to share it with you. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Let’s dive into the recipe.
Ukrainian Beef and Potatoes Stew (Zharkoye) Recipe
Ingredients (for 4 servings)
To make this Ukrainian beef and potatoes stew, you will need:
- 1 lb (500g) beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (200ml) beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes OR 1 1/4 cup (300ml) passata
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or herbs, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
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Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add back the beef and stir in the tomato paste. Cook for another 5 minutes.
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Add the cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder to the pot. Pour in the crushed tomatoes/passata and beef stock until the beef is covered.
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Cover, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
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Add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine, then cover and simmer for another 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the heavy cream until smooth, making sure there are no lumps. Add the cream mixture to the stew and stir well.
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Serve the Zharkoye hot, garnished with fresh dill or herbs if desired.
Tips and Variations
- If you're short on time, you can use pre-cut stew meat to save prep work.
- For added flavor, you can stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the diced tomatoes.
- Zharkoye is traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream. If you're dairy-free, you can use a non-dairy sour cream substitute or omit it altogether.
- You can make this dish ahead of time—it actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen!
How to Serve Zharkoye
Zharkoye is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pot. Traditionally, it’s served with sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley. The dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of hearty bread or Ukrainian-style rye to soak up the rich broth.
Variations:
- Try serving Zharkoye with a side of pickled vegetables, another staple of Ukrainian cuisine.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute beef with chicken or pork. Both work well in this stew.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for Zharkoye?
Yes, while beef is traditional, you can substitute it with pork, chicken, or lamb depending on your preference.
Can I make Zharkoye in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the potatoes midway through.
Can I freeze Zharkoye?
Zharkoye freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
A Delicious Finish
This Ukrainian beef and potatoes stew is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. The tender beef, hearty potatoes, and flavorful broth come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re recreating memories from your travels or discovering a new favorite, Zharkoye is sure to impress.
