Tavë Dheu with Beef

Preheat the oven to 220°C and place two small clay pots inside so they heat up well.

Cut the beef into 2 cm cubes, lightly coat the pieces in wheat flour, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Heat the butter and 1 tbsp olive oil in a deep pan. Brown the beef on all sides, then transfer it to a plate.

Add the remaining olive oil to the same pan, then add the finely chopped onions and sliced chili peppers. Cook over low heat until the onions soften, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Return the beef to the pan, pour in the red wine or red wine vinegar, and let it reduce almost completely. Add the grated roasted tomatoes or tomato purée, bay leaves, and hot water. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Add the cottage cheese, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, then mix well. Transfer the mixture into the hot clay pots and bake for about 20 minutes, until thickened and lightly browned on top. Serve hot directly in the pots.