Feeding my Nostalgia

Nostalgia noun a sentimental longing or wistful affection for a period in the past.

synonyms:longing/yearning/ reminiscence/ homesickness/ sentimental

Nostalgia is a feeling you get very often especially if you live far away from home. This feeling just needs some comfort food. You know the kind of food that feels like it’s giving you a hug with every bite you take. That food where no morsel is left on the plate.  Depending on my mood this can vary from Cottage pie, Apple crumble to Macaroni cheese but today I just wanted some good ole, “Haifiridzi” this is simply a mix of beef and vegetables. This meal is a staple in Zimbabwe, it’s a One pot kinda meal as well so its really up my street.Knowing exactly what I wanted to eat I visited my local butcher and got myself some thin ribs. I prefer this cut of meat as it is quite boney and this brings  a lot of flavour to the dish. You can also use Shin on the bone as an alternative. If you would like to join me in my comfort follow recipe below:

Ingredients

1-1.5kg beef 1 medium onion 2 medium fresh tomato ( 200g tinned will also work) 2 cloves crushed garlic 300mm stock ( I use Maggie cubes) 4 cups spring greens ( if you can, get the indian saag, it tastes better) 1-2tsp paprika 2no bayleaves 1 -2 tsp all- purpose seasoning 1-2tsp curry powder Salt and Pepper to taste

Method

1.Start by marinating your meat with salt, pepper, paprika and all-purpose seasoning cover a leave to stand or an hour.

2. Add about 2 tblsp oil to a large pot and fry your meet in batches until browned.

3. Add curry powder, onions, tomatoes, garlic, to your pan and mix.

4. Finally add the stock and bay leaves and bring to a boil. Once the meat is boiling, reduce heat to a simmer for an hour and a half.

5. Add the spring greens mix and cover for an additional 10mins.

6. Serve with Sadza for an authentic Zimbabwean experience,  otherwise go for whatever floats your boat.