Hello, friends! Who said we can only eat something as delicious as stew in the winter? It's okay if it gets a little sweaty in the summer... but nothing a fan under the covers can't fix.
This particular stew, called tomaticán is so simple and light that it's a highly recommended recipe to make at home. The most time-consuming part is preparing the ingredients—peeling, chopping, and so on— because the cooking itself doesn't require much supervision, and everything is ready in half an hour.
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What to expect if I'm going to eat tomaticán
Tomaticán is a traditional Chilean dish known for its simplicity and delicious flavor . This stew combines basic ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and meat, creating a comforting blend that reflects the richness of Creole cuisine .
In its most classic version, it's made with beef, usually cut into small pieces, to which ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and seasonings like cumin and oregano are added. It's a marmitako-style stew with bonito , chickpeas with chorizo , mongongo stew , and creamy meat and potato stew .
Origins of the tomaticán
This emblematic dish of Chilean cuisine has its roots in rural life and Chilean culinary tradition. Its origins date back to the country's rural areas, where the availability of basic ingredients like beef and tomatoes influenced the creation of this comforting stew.
This dish reflects the culinary wisdom developed in rural communities , where simple ingredients combine with traditional cooking techniques. The tomaticán recipe is also linked to the influence of indigenous cuisine in Chile .
Characteristics of traditional tomaticán
The traditional tomatican recipe has endured over time as an icon of local cuisine. It's a comforting stew that combines simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Preparation involves simmering the ingredients, allowing the flavors to blend and gradually intensify . The meat, usually cut into small pieces, is cooked until it becomes tender and absorbs the aromas of the spices . The result is a stew that embodies the essence of Chilean home cooking, with its robust flavors and ability to bring the family together around the table.
The tomaticán as part of Chilean gastronomic culture
Criollo tomato sauce is appreciated not only for its flavor but also for its ability to adapt to local ingredients and individual preferences. This recipe's versatility allows for variations based on region or personal taste, with the addition of ingredients such as potatoes, carrots, or peppers.
In many Chilean families, this recipe has become passed down from generation to generation , forming part of the country's culinary traditions. Its distinctive aroma and comforting texture make this dish a popular choice for any occasion.
The tomaticán, with its deep connection to Chilean culture, represents the richness of traditional cuisine, where simple ingredients are transformed into unforgettable culinary experiences.
Colorful facts you didn't know about the tomatican
- Rural Origins : Tomaticán has its roots in rural Chilean life, where the availability of local ingredients like tomatoes and beef influenced the creation of this stew. Its simplicity reflects the practicality of recipes developed in rural settings, where cooking is often a fundamental and everyday activity.
- Regional Adaptability : Over time, tomaticán has undergone regional adaptations in Chile. Depending on the region, variations can be found that incorporate distinctive local ingredients. The recipe's versatility allows each region to imprint its own unique character on the dish, adding diversity to Chilean culinary tradition.
- Connection to celebrations : Although it's a dish eaten every day, tomaticán is also present at celebrations and special events. Its ability to feed large groups and its comforting flavor make it a popular choice for family parties, local festivities, and other gatherings.
What if we make the tomaticán with ground beef?
Tomato sauce with ground beef is a practical and tasty twist on this traditional Chilean dish . Start by browning the ground beef in a pan until it's well-cooked and golden brown.
This step enhances the flavors and textures of the meat , which blend deliciously with the rest of the ingredients. It even allows us to use it as a side dish for other dishes.
When served with ground beef , it reveals a modern and accessible version of this traditional Chilean dish , maintaining its authentic essence and offering a practical alternative for those looking for a quicker and easier preparation.
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Tomato recipe
Yield : 4 portions
Preparation time : 1 hour 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 500g of beef (cut into small pieces)
- 400 g of corn kernels, drained
- 4 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Tomaticán in 3 easy steps
- In a pot with a little oil, cook the meat over medium heat until browned. Add the onions and garlic and cook until translucent.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, potatoes, and drained corn kernels. Season with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes. Once the meat is tender and the flavors have blended, serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
