Stewed Beef, Tomatoes and Okra

Recipe Taken From:
Rachael Ray Magazine, October 2010

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups rice
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper
• 1 onion, chopped
• One 28-ounce can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
• One 16-ounce bag frozen cut okra
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley

Preparation:
1.In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 3 cups water. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook over medium-low heat until the water is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

2.While the rice is cooking, in a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Working in batches, add the beef and cook until browned, about 2 minutes; transfer to a bowl. Lower the heat to medium, add the onion and remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pot and cook until translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, okra and beef broth; bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, then lower the heat and simmer until thickened, about 15 minutes. Return the beef and any juices to the pot and stir in the parsley. Serve with the rice.

Notes & Tips:

As with most Rachael Ray recipes, I think they come out pretty bland, so I know that I need to add some extra spices, garlic, cumin, chiplotle chili powder. Add heat by stirring in a chopped canned chipotle chile with the tomatoes in Step 2.
Double the stew and let the leftovers cool completely before freezing in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Nutrition Facts:
Serves 4: 397 calories, 12g fat, 28g carbs, 18g protein