Daphne our maternity cover coordinator has shared her family favourite - Beef with Plums.

"Every year on the 1st of January we have a big family gathering at my mom’s house to celebrate New Year’s Day. The celebration is extra special as it’s also her name day. This Beef with Plum dish has been everyone’s favourite for years in a row and it personally reminds me of those cosy family parties on a crisp winter day. It’s rich, comforting and delicious!"

Ingredients for 4 people:

1kg beef pieces 

1 large onion sliced 

2 leeks sliced 

400gr dried plums

473ml red wine (you can also use orange juice)

35ml brandy (optional) 

300ml vegetable stock

3-4 tbsp olive oil

2 bay leaves 

Thyme (to taste)

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Soak the dried plumbs in the red wine or orange juice 2 hours before you start cooking.

On a medium heat, sauté the onion and leeks until soft and then set aside.

In another large pot heat the oil on a medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef and stir until all the meat is nicely browned.

Add the sautéed onion and leeks to the beef and then pour in the brandy (optional), stock, and any wine or orange juice that hasn’t been absorbed by the dried plums.

Next add the bay leaves, thyme and salt and pepper to taste. Leave to simmer on a low heat for 1hour. When 30mins are remaining, add the dried plums.

Serve this heartwarming dish with a side of steamed rice or crispy roast potatoes.