Carbonada Criolla

Brown the Beef: In a large pot, brown the beef cubes.

Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, cook the onion until translucent.

Add carrots, potatoes, and pumpkin, cooking for a few minutes.

Simmer: Return the beef to the pot.

Add broth and dried apricots.

Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer for 1-2 hours, until the beef is tender.

Serve: Enjoy hot, with a crusty piece of bread.

Pro Tips: Brown the beef in batches to ensure it gets a good sear, which adds depth to the stew's flavor.

Adding the fruits towards the end of cooking preserves their texture and adds a subtle sweetness to the dish.