Been making this for years and always get tons of compliments!

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Protein**:
Start by seasoning the protein (chicken, beef, pork, or tofu) with **salt**, **pepper**, **paprika**, and **cumin**. Heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the protein and sear it on all sides until browned. Once done, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

2. **Sauté the Aromatics**:
In the same pan, add the chopped **onion** and minced **garlic**. Cook for about **3-4 minutes**, or until the onions have softened and become translucent. This is where the flavors start to build, creating a savory base for the dish.

3. **Build the Sauce**:
To the pan, add the **diced tomatoes** (with juice) and the **broth**. Stir to combine. If you want a slightly sweet balance, this is the time to stir in the **brown sugar**. Add the **dried thyme** and let the sauce come to a simmer.

4. **Simmer and Cook**:
Return the protein to the pan. Cover and let everything simmer for **20-30 minutes**, allowing the flavors to meld together and the protein to cook through. If you’re using tofu, you’ll want to simmer it for a shorter time, just until the sauce has thickened and the tofu absorbs the flavors.

5. **Finish with Freshness**:
Once the dish is cooked to perfection, garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** or **basil**. The fresh herbs bring a burst of color and brightness that complement the rich flavors of the dish.

6. **Serve**:
Serve your creation over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. Your guests will be raving about how amazing the dish tastes, and you’ll be thrilled at how easy it was to make.

### Tips for Success

– **Customize It**: While the recipe works beautifully as written, don’t be afraid to make it your own! Add in your favorite veggies, swap the protein for something else, or experiment with different spices to create your ideal flavor profile.

– **Make It Ahead**: This dish holds up well when made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors get even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight. This makes it a great option for meal prep or preparing dinner in advance for busy days.

– **Use Leftovers**: If you have leftovers, don’t fret! This dish makes fantastic leftovers that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors continue to develop and taste just as good — if not better!

– **Balance the Sauce**: The combination of broth and diced tomatoes creates a flavorful base, but if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it reduce down further. If you like a thinner sauce, just add more broth or a splash of water.

### Why This Recipe Always Gets Compliments

This dish is the perfect balance of comfort and flavor. It’s hearty and satisfying without being overly heavy, and the combination of savory spices, tender protein, and fresh herbs is irresistible. What truly sets this recipe apart is how easy it is to make without sacrificing flavor — it’s simple enough for a quick weeknight meal but fancy enough to serve at a dinner party.

Over the years, this dish has become my go-to recipe for impressing guests, and the compliments keep rolling in every time. It’s the kind of meal that people will remember, and they’ll definitely ask for the recipe.

So, if you’re looking for a meal that’s guaranteed to please, look no further. This recipe has stood the test of time in my kitchen, and I’m confident it’ll quickly become a staple in yours too! Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just because, give it a try — you’ll see why it gets compliments every single time!