Instructions:
Beef Stew:
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Prep the Beef: Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, browning it well on all sides to develop flavor. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
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Sauté the Onions: In the same pot, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, sautéing until soft and golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
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Slow Cook: Return the beef to the pot with the onions. Add water, ensuring it just covers the meat. Stir in the apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook gently for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily. Check occasionally, adding more water if needed to prevent drying out.
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Final Seasoning: Once the beef is tender, adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar to taste.
Vegetable Ragout:
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Prep the Vegetables: Season the diced eggplants and zucchini with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes to remove excess water. Rinse and pat dry.
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Fry the Vegetables: Heat oil in a large skillet. Fry the eggplants and zucchini in batches until golden and slightly softened. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
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Sauté: In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the bell peppers and cook until they start to soften. Stir in the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and khmeli-suneli spice blend. Cook until the tomatoes break down into a sauce.
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Combine: Add the fried eggplants and zucchini back to the skillet. Mix well to combine with the tomato and onion mixture. Season with black pepper and salt, to taste. Cook on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Garnish: Just before serving, stir in the fresh herbs.
To Serve:
Ladle the tender beef stew into bowls, accompanied by the flavorful vegetable ragout on the side. Enjoy the contrast of melt-in-your-mouth beef with the slightly crisp, vibrant vegetables, all bursting with rich spices and fresh herbs. This dish is more than just a meal—it’s an experience, showcasing how patience and simple techniques can transform basic ingredients into a feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s slow-cooked to perfection.
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A hearty vegetable ragout packed with fresh flavors.
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The richness of the stew perfectly balances the freshness of the vegetable medley.
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A comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion:
This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef Stew with Vegetable Ragout is a true celebration of flavor and texture. Slow-cooked beef becomes tender and succulent, while the vibrant vegetable ragout adds freshness and depth to the dish. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to savor every bite and appreciate the simple joys of home-cooked comfort food. Happy cooking! 
