Bistec a la Olla: Traditional Peruvian Beef Stew

Peru is renowned for its rich flavours, and this "Bistec a la Olla" dish definitely exemplifies that. Bistec a la Olla is a traditional Peruvian beef stew that combines tender beef steak in a rich, flavourful sauce. As with many Peruvian dishes, it is usually served with both rice and potatoes, making it both a comforting and hearty meal.

What is Bistec a la Olla?

This one-pot beef stew is a classic home-cooked dish that slow cooks beef steak in a rich, flavourful sauce until the meat is nice and tender. Many countries in Latin America have a dish named "Bistec a la Olla," and the recipes vary quite substantially. Even in Peru, the preparation differs according to the traditions of each family. Its rich taste and versatility make this dish incredibly popular in Peru, and it is regularly consumed throughout the country.

In today’s video, I'm going to show you how to make a delicious Peruvian-style Bistec a la Olla served with "Papas Doradas" (Golden, Fried Potatoes) and "Arroz Blanco" (White Rice).

How to make Peruvian Beef Stew

To prepare this Peruvian-style beef stew, follow the steps below:

1. Make the Aderezo (Sauce): Chop onions and fry in a pot on low-medium heat for 6-7 minutes. Add garlic paste and aji panca paste, seasoning with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
   

2. Add the Beef Steak: Place the beef steak in the pot, ensuring that it is covered evenly in the sauce. Add water, beef stock, and vinegar.
   

3. Leave to Cook: Put the lid on top of the pot and leave to cook until the meat is tender.
   

4. Add Vegetables (Optional): If you would like to add vegetables, such as spring onions, do this once the meat has almost finished cooking.
   

5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): Once cooked, if you need to thicken the sauce, you can add cornflour mixed with a little bit of water until you have the desired consistency.
   

6. Serve: Serve hot with boiled or fried potatoes, white rice, and lettuce.

Bistec a la Olla Recipe

For a visual guide on how to make this recipe, please watch the video below:

Peruvian Beef Stew Ingredients:

• 1 large onion

• 2 beef steaks

• 1 tablespoon of garlic paste

• 1 tablespoon of aji panca paste

• 1 cup of water or beef stock

• 2 - 3 tablespoons of vinegar

• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

• Salt, pepper and cumin to taste