Beef Azu Tatar-style

Start by cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces. Next, sear them in well-heated oil until nicely browned and crusty. Season with salt and pepper. Fry in small batches. Do not dump all the meat in at once, otherwise it will steam instead of sear.

Remove the meat and add the onion sliced into half-rings. Sauté until softened. Return the meat to the pan, add canned crushed tomatoes in juice, and broth. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 30 to 40 minutes. The meat should become tender, and the sauce should reduce and thicken.

While everything is simmering, cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and fry in oil until golden brown, seasoning with salt at the end. Also, cut the pickled (or brined) cucumbers into julienne strips.