Contents
This classic Romanian salad is a staple at Christmas, Easter, and special celebrations. It’s made with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, pickles, and peas, all mixed with mayonnaise and mustard for a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dish. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this traditional recipe is loved for its rich flavor and festive presentation.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) beef (chuck roast, brisket, or stewing beef)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 3-4 pickles, finely diced
- ½ cup peas (frozen or canned, drained)
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook the Beef:
- Boil beef in salted water for 2 hours until fork-tender.
- Alternatively, use an Instant Pot: cook on high pressure for 1 hour.
- Once cooked, let it cool and finely dice.
Cook the Vegetables:
- In a pot of salted water, boil potatoes and carrots for 15 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and let them cool before dicing finely.
Prepare the Other Ingredients:
- Dice the pickles and drain excess liquid with paper towels.
- Drain the peas well.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced beef, potatoes, carrots, pickles, and peas.
- Add mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until fully combined.
Decorate & Serve:
- Smooth out the top of the salad.
- Optionally, decorate with sliced pickles, boiled eggs, olives, or red bell pepper strips.
- Serve chilled.
