Turkish Beef Stew (Tas Kebab) Recipe
Tas kebab is one of the most beloved dishes in Turkish cuisine, featuring tender meat pieces and vegetables cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce. This hearty stew is perfect for family gatherings and cold winter evenings, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. Today, we’ll share my favorite version of this classic recipe, complete with all the tips and tricks for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly tender meat that falls apart with your fork
- Rich, savory sauce perfect for dipping bread
- One-pot meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying
- Simple ingredients that create amazing flavor
- Great make-ahead dish that tastes even better the next day
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Meat and Base:
- 800g beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 whole black peppercorns
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 medium carrot, cubed
- 3 cups hot water
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Serving plates
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
Start by heating your pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil and butter, allowing them to melt together. This combination gives you the perfect balance of high heating point and rich flavor.
2. Cook the Meat
- Add the meat cubes and brown them well on all sides (about 8-10 minutes)
- Let the meat release and reabsorb its juices
- For the clearest sauce, skim off any foam that rises to the surface
3. Add Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion and garlic
- Sauté until the onions become translucent (about 5 minutes)
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste
- Add tomato paste and stir well to combine
4. Build the Stew
- Add salt and black peppercorns
- Put in the cubed potatoes and carrots
- Pour in the hot water
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until meat is tender
Pro Tips for Perfect Tas Kebab
- Choose the right cut of meat: Look for well-marbled beef chuck for the best results
- Don’t rush the browning process: This step builds the foundation of flavor
- Keep the heat low and slow: This ensures tender meat and developed flavors
- Cut vegetables in similar sizes: This ensures even cooking
- Let it rest: Like many stews, tas kebab tastes even better the next day
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tas kebab hot over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness. Traditional accompaniments include:
- Fresh Turkish bread for soaking up the sauce
- A simple salad with lemon dressing
- Pickled vegetables
- Plain yogurt on the side
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
Common Questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and aromatics as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I add different vegetables?
Absolutely! While potatoes and carrots are traditional, you can add other root vegetables like turnips or parsnips.
How do I know when the meat is done?
The meat should be fork-tender and easily break apart when pressed.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! In fact, many prefer to make tas kebab a day ahead as the flavors develop even more overnight.
We hope you enjoy making this traditional Turkish tas kebab recipe. It’s a dish that truly represents the heart of Turkish home cooking – simple ingredients transformed into something magnificent through time and patience. Don’t forget to share your results and any variations you try in the comments below!