Calulu de Carne de Vaca
A hearty and complex stew made with dried beef, various leafy greens, and palm oil. Calulu is a beloved dish known for its deep flavors and slow-cooked tenderness.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Dried beef (carne seca)(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 150 ml Palm oil (dendê)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or pureed)
- 150 g Okra(sliced)
- 500 g Collard greens (or other dark leafy greens like spinach or kale)(chopped)
- 1 liter Water
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 small Chili pepper (optional)(finely chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Soak the dried beef in water for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, changing the water a few times to reduce saltiness. Drain and set aside.
- 2
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the crushed tomatoes and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce darkens and thickens.
- 4
Add the soaked and drained dried beef to the pot. Stir well to coat the beef with the tomato mixture.
- 5
Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. Stir occasionally.
- 6
Add the sliced okra and chopped leafy greens to the pot. If using chili pepper, add it now. Stir well.
- 7
Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the greens are fully cooked and tender, and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency. Add more water if it becomes too dry.
- 8
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the saltiness from the dried beef.
- 9
Serve hot, typically with funje or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality of the dried beef is crucial for the flavor of this dish.
- ✓Be patient with the simmering time; it's essential for tenderizing the dried beef.
- ✓If you don't have access to palm oil, a neutral oil like vegetable oil can be used, but the flavor will be different.
🔄 Variations
- Some variations include adding fish or other types of meat.
- Different combinations of leafy greens can be used.
- A touch of ground dried shrimp can add an umami boost.