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This Argentinian Beef Stew, also known as Carbonada Criolla, brings a delightful blend of rich, comforting flavors and wholesome nutrition to your table.
Packed with lean beef, it offers a substantial source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety.
The generous addition of fresh vegetables and dried apricots adds fiber and natural sweetness, boosting digestion and providing important vitamins and antioxidants.
Using olive oil introduces heart-healthy fats, making this stew a balanced meal option. Its moderate calorie count and nutrient-dense ingredients make it ideal for those seeking a satisfying yet health-conscious dish.
Plus, the recipe adapts beautifully for busy lifestyles—whether you’re using an Instant Pot for quick pressure cooking or a Dutch oven for slow simmering, it’s both convenient and versatile.
This stew is perfect for meal prep, delivering warm, flavorful dinners with minimal fuss.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
This multifunctional appliance accelerates the cooking process by tenderizing beef quickly while preserving vibrant flavors. Beyond this recipe, it’s a kitchen powerhouse for soups, stews, rice, and even yogurt, saving hours on meal prep.
Dutch Oven
Ideal for slow-cooked meals, this heavy-duty pot evenly distributes heat to develop deep, rich flavors over time. It’s a versatile staple for braising, roasting, and baking, perfect for enhancing any home-cooked meal.
Chef’s Knife
Precision chopping of vegetables and meat ensures even cooking and texture. A sharp, comfortable chef’s knife enhances safety and efficiency, becoming your go-to tool for almost all kitchen prep.
Wooden Spoon
Essential for stirring and sautéing, a wooden spoon is gentle on cookware surfaces while mixing ingredients thoroughly. It’s a timeless tool that withstands heat and won’t scratch your pots.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of ingredients like spices, liquids, and broth ensures consistent taste and texture. These tools are indispensable for precise cooking and baking every time.
Authentic Instant Pot Argentinian Beef Stew
Equipment
- 1 Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker
- 1 Dutch Oven (if cooking stove top)
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 to 2 lbs lean boneless beef cubed (1-inch pieces)
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 5 oz tiny tomatoes
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 2 bay leaves fresh preferred
- 1 cup red wine
- 3 cups beef broth or stock
- 8 cups assorted vegetables cut into chunks
- 2 tsp fresh oregano chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ cup dried apricots
- 1 tsp sea salt
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- Fresh oregano and parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and kitchen tools. Chop the onion into medium-sized pieces, mince the garlic finely, and cut your lean beef into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Rinse the tiny tomatoes and prepare your vegetables by washing and cutting them into large chunks. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and faster.
- Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode or “Manual” on high heat.Pour in 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up until shimmering but not smoking. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and the tiny tomatoes to the pot. Stir frequently and cook these together until the tomatoes begin to soften and burst, releasing their juices and creating a fragrant base for the stew. This usually takes about 5 minutes and helps build a rich depth of flavor.
- Brown the Beef Cubes: Once the aromatics and tomatoes are softened, add the beef cubes directly to the pot. Spread them out as much as possible to get even browning. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden crust, then stir occasionally to brown all sides evenly. This step locks in flavor and texture, creating a savory foundation for the stew. Make sure the beef is nicely browned but not overcooked at this point.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings for Pressure Cooking: After browning, pour in 1 cup of red wine and 3 cups of beef broth or stock to deglaze the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom — these add amazing flavor to your stew. Add 2 fresh bay leaves, 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried), 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Pressure Cook the Beef Base: Close the Instant Pot lid securely and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Stew” setting or manual high-pressure cooking for 30 minutes.Allow the pressure cooker to come to pressure naturally — this usually takes about 10-15 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to finish tenderizing the beef slowly, then carefully switch the valve to “Venting” for a quick pressure release.
- Prepare Vegetables and Apricots While Cooking: While the beef is cooking under pressure, prepare your vegetables. Cut your choice of vegetables into large chunks, suitable for stewing — think potatoes, carrots, corn, or squash. Also, chop the dried apricots if they’re large, so they integrate well into the stew later. Having these prepped means you can add them immediately after the pressure cooking stage.
- Add Vegetables and Apricots for Final Cooking: Once the pressure has fully released and the lid is safely removed, add the prepared vegetables and ½ cup of dried apricots to the pot. Stir gently to combine, making sure everything is submerged in the flavorful broth. Close the lid again, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for an additional 7 minutes. This short burst softens the vegetables perfectly without turning them mushy.
- Quick Release and Final Seasoning Check: After the 7-minute cooking time, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting.” Once all pressure is released, open the lid and check the texture of the vegetables — they should be tender but still hold their shape. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary to balance flavors.
- Garnish and Serve with Fresh Herbs: Ladle the steaming stew into bowls and generously sprinkle chopped fresh oregano and parsley over the top for a vibrant, fresh finish. These herbs add a bright contrast to the rich, savory stew, enhancing aroma and presentation. Serve immediately while hot, paired with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Optional Stove Top Method for Traditional Cooking: If you prefer to cook this stew on the stove, start by heating olive oil in a heavy Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sauté onions, garlic, and tomatoes until tomatoes burst, then brown beef cubes as described above. Add bay leaves, broth, and wine, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook gently for at least 60 minutes until beef is tender. Then add vegetables and apricots, cover again, and simmer for another 30 minutes or until vegetables are soft. Adjust seasoning and garnish as above before serving.
Notes
- Allow extra time for your Instant Pot to come to pressure and release pressure naturally to ensure tender beef.
- Use fresh bay leaves for more aromatic flavor, but dried bay leaves work in a pinch.
- Choose vegetables that hold their shape well during cooking, like potatoes, carrots, corn, or butternut squash.
- Dried apricots add a subtle sweetness; soak them in warm water for 10 minutes if very dry before adding.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to balance the flavors, especially if you substitute broth or wine.
- For a thicker stew, remove the lid after cooking and simmer on sauté mode until desired consistency.
Chef’s Secrets: Mastering This Stew’s Flavor
Creating the perfect Carbonada Criolla is all about layering flavors and controlling cooking times.
Sautéing the aromatics and tomatoes first releases natural sugars that build a flavorful base.
Browning the beef cubes develops the savory depth essential to the stew’s character.
The natural pressure release after the initial cook lets the beef fibers relax slowly, ensuring tenderness without drying out.
Adding vegetables and apricots for a short second cook preserves their texture and infuses the stew with subtle sweetness.
Use fresh herbs at the end to brighten the rich, hearty flavors.
Don’t rush seasoning — taste as you go to balance the smoky paprika, wine acidity, and natural sweetness for a perfectly harmonious dish.
Serving Suggestions: Pairings for a Complete Meal
This stew is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Serve it with crusty artisan bread or warm cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
For a heartier meal, steamed rice or creamy polenta complements the stew’s texture and flavors perfectly.
A glass of Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon echoes the wine used in the recipe and enhances the overall dining experience.
Garnish generously with fresh oregano and parsley to add a fresh herbal contrast on the plate.
Storage Tips: Keeping Stew Fresh and Flavorful
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
The flavors deepen over time, making reheated servings even more delicious.
For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and warm gently on the stove or in a microwave to preserve texture.
Avoid boiling leftovers vigorously, as this can break down vegetables and make beef tough.
Stir occasionally during reheating to evenly distribute heat and maintain consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Carbonada Criolla Guide
1. Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute lamb or pork chunks, but adjust cooking times accordingly. Beef is traditional and offers the best flavor and texture balance for this recipe.
2. What vegetables work best in this stew?
Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and butternut squash hold up well. Corn and bell peppers add color and sweetness, but avoid very delicate greens that overcook easily.
3. Is red wine necessary?
Red wine adds acidity and complexity, but you can substitute additional beef broth with a splash of vinegar (red wine or balsamic) if desired.
4. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth or stock. Always check labels to be certain.
5. Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Prepare it a day ahead and gently reheat before serving.
This recipe is inspired by beyondmeresustenance and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
