Calulu de Carne
A hearty and flavorful stew made with dried or smoked beef, vegetables, and palm oil, offering a rich taste of São Toméan home cooking.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Dried or smoked beef(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 150 ml Palm oil
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(chopped)
- 200 g Okra(trimmed and sliced)
- 300 g Spinach or other leafy greens(chopped)
- 2 small Chili peppers(finely chopped (optional))
- 500 ml Water or beef broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using dried beef, soak it in water for at least 2 hours or overnight to rehydrate and remove excess salt. Drain and cut into pieces.
💡 Tip: Soaking time can be reduced by using warm water. - 2
Heat palm oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the beef pieces and brown them lightly on all sides.
💡 Tip: Browning the beef adds depth of flavor. - 5
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 10 minutes.
- 6
Add the sliced okra, chopped leafy greens, and chili peppers (if using). Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Okra will help thicken the stew. - 7
Pour in the water or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 8
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, uncovered, to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- 9
Serve hot, typically with rice or fufu.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Palm oil is essential for the authentic flavor and color, but can be substituted with vegetable oil if unavailable, though the taste will differ.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your spice preference.
- ✓Smoked beef can be used for a more intense flavor profile.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
- Incorporate small chunks of smoked fish for added complexity.