“Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of rich flavors and heartwarming goodness! Introducing Tomato Bredie, the South African culinary masterpiece that will transport you straight to a world of savory delights. Picture succulent chunks of tender meat, vibrant tomatoes, and a symphony of aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in one pot. This time-honored stew brings together the warmth of family traditions and the joy of savoring every spoonful. So, grab your apron and let’s embark on a flavorful journey through the captivating world of Tomato Bredie. A dish so delightful, you’ll be coming back for seconds, thirds, and beyond!”

Tomato bredie

Tomato Bredie is a traditional South African stew that features tender chunks of meat, tomatoes, and various aromatic spices. It is a beloved dish that holds a special place in South African cuisine and is often enjoyed during gatherings and family meals.

The word "Bredie" is derived from the Dutch term "breden" which means "to simmer." This cooking method is central to preparing Tomato Bredie. The stew is typically slow-cooked, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and succulent.

The main ingredients in Tomato Bredie usually include:

1. *Meat:* Lamb or mutton is the most common choice for traditional Tomato Bredie, but beef can also be used.

2. *Tomatoes:* Fresh ripe tomatoes form the base of the stew, providing a rich, tangy flavor.

3. *Onions:* Onions are sautéed until soft and golden, adding depth and sweetness to the dish.

4. *Spices:* Aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves are commonly used, imparting a warm and fragrant taste to the stew.

5. *Potatoes:* Potatoes are often added to the stew, adding heartiness and helping to thicken the sauce.

The preparation of Tomato Bredie typically involves browning the meat and onions, adding the tomatoes and spices, and then simmering everything together until the meat is tender and the flavors have developed fully. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to blend harmoniously, creating a comforting and flavorful dish.

Tomato Bredie is often served with rice or traditional South African side dishes like pap (a type of porridge made from maize meal) or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It is a dish that brings together the warmth of home-cooked comfort food and the spirit of sharing good food with loved ones.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 2

Total Time 2 30

Course Side Dish

Cuisine South Africa

Ingredients

1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) lamb/mutton, cut into chunks (you can also use beef if preferred)
2 large onions, finely chopped
2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
4-5 large ripe tomatoes, chopped (or canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren't available)
3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
2-3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
2-3 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef or lamb broth (or water)

Instructions

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Then, add the meat chunks and brown them on all sides.
Once the meat is browned, add the chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
Pour in the beef or lamb broth (or water) to cover the meat and tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the meat becomes tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add more liquid if needed.
Once the meat is tender, add the potato chunks to the pot. Continue to simmer the stew for an additional 30 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Taste the Tomato Bredie and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Remove the bay leaves from the stew before serving. Tomato Bredie is traditionally served with rice, pap (maize porridge), or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Enjoy your delicious and hearty Tomato Bredie! This flavorful South African stew is perfect for bringing comfort and warmth to your table.

SOURCE: MY RECIPE JOINT

Video

Notes

When cooking Tomato Bredie, there are a few essential things to keep in mind to achieve the best results and flavors. Here are three important points to note:

1. *Choosing the Right Cut of Meat:* For the most tender and flavorful Tomato Bredie, it's crucial to select the right cut of meat. Traditionally, lamb or mutton is used, which provides a rich and distinctive taste. However, you can also use beef if you prefer. Opt for cuts with marbling, such as shoulder or leg, as they will become tender and juicy during the slow-cooking process. Be sure to trim excess fat as needed, but leave some fat for added flavor.

2. *Balancing the Spices:* The combination of spices, including ground cinnamon and cloves, is what gives Tomato Bredie its unique taste. However, these spices can quickly overpower the dish if not balanced correctly. When adding the spices, start with smaller amounts and taste the stew as it simmers. Adjust the spice levels as needed to achieve a harmonious blend of flavors that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and richness of the meat. Remember, you can always add more spices, but it's challenging to reduce their intensity once they've been added.

3. *Simmering Time and Liquid:* The key to a successful Tomato Bredie is the slow simmering process. This allows the flavors to meld, the meat to become tender, and the sauce to thicken. Keep an eye on the stew while it simmers and stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you find that the liquid is reducing too quickly, add a bit more broth or water to maintain the desired consistency. Conversely, if the sauce is too thin, continue simmering with the lid partially off to allow some evaporation and thickening.

By paying attention to these three aspects when cooking Tomato Bredie, you can create a flavorful and comforting South African stew that will delight your taste buds and bring warmth to your table. Enjoy the delicious results with your choice of accompaniments like rice or pap for a complete and satisfying meal!

Nutrition

Serving: 150g

Keyword Tomato bredie

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