North African Style Beef Stew

This hearty stew is bursting with warm spices and tender beef, perfect for cozy evenings. It’s an easy way to bring a taste of North Africa to your dinner table with rich flavors and comforting goodness.

Cooking Tips

Brown the beef well before simmering to develop deeper flavors.
Use fresh spices for the best aroma and taste.
Let the stew simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together fully.

Ingredients 0/7

2 ¼ pounds beef stew meat, cut into 3/4-inch cubes 2 onions, roughly chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 2 tablespoons harissa salt and ground black pepper to taste water to cover 2 potatoes, chopped

Why This Dish Is A Crowd Favorite

This stew offers a rich blend of warm spices that create a comforting and exotic flavor. It’s hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings or family dinners. The slow-cooked beef becomes tender and melts in your mouth, making every bite a delight.

Step 1

Brown the beef in a large pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally so it cooks evenly—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once the meat is nicely browned, add the chopped onions and garlic, and cook everything together until the onions soften, which usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes. Next, stir in the harissa paste, making sure the beef is well coated, and let it cook for another couple of minutes to bring out the flavors. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2

Pour in enough water to cover the beef and bring it all to a gentle boil. Then, toss in the potatoes and tomatoes. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer slowly for 2 to 3 hours. This slow cooking will make the beef tender and let all the flavors meld beautifully. Check occasionally and give it a gentle stir to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.

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people cooked this recipe

By Ryan Parker

Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.

Serving Ideas For Family Meals

Serve this stew over fluffy couscous, rice, or with warm flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad adds freshness and balance to the meal.

Storing Food Safely

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after a day. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?

Yes, chuck roast or brisket work well because they become tender with slow cooking.

How spicy is the harissa in this recipe?

Harissa adds a moderate heat and smoky flavor, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

Can I prepare this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Do I need to peel the potatoes before adding them?

Peeling is optional; you can leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients if you prefer.

What can I use if I don’t have harissa paste?

Substitute with a mix of chili paste, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cumin for a similar flavor.

How thick should the stew be when done?

It should have a thick, stew-like consistency with tender beef and soft potatoes, not too watery.

Can I add other vegetables to the stew?

Yes, carrots, bell peppers, or chickpeas can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftovers properly?

Let the stew cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.