There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of beef stew. The tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and rich, savory broth come together to create a meal that warms both your body and soul. Whether it’s a cold winter evening or you’re simply craving a classic homestyle dish, beef stew is a tried-and-true recipe that never fails to satisfy. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, and you can tailor it to suit your taste. Let's jump into crafting the ultimate beef stew that your family will ask for again and again!
Ingredients
To make a flavorful and filling beef stew, you'll need the following ingredients:
For the stew:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 medium carrots, chopped into chunks
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary (fresh or dried)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For serving (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or mashed potatoes
Instructions
Follow this step-by-step guide to create a beautiful, flavorful beef stew. Your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of simmering goodness in no time!
1. Prepare the Beef
Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels (this helps them brown better). Season the beef generously with salt and pepper, then toss it in the flour to lightly coat each piece.
2. Sear the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches (don’t overcrowd the pot) and cook until it develops a golden-brown crust on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium, and in the same pot, add the diced onion. Cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Flavor
Stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance its depth of flavor. Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release all those delicious browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Create the Base
Add the beef back to the pot, then pour in the beef broth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
6. Add the Vegetables
After the stew has simmered for about an hour, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir everything together, cover again, and continue to simmer for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Taste and Adjust
Remove the bay leaves and test the stew for seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few potatoes directly in the pot or add a slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) and stir until the stew thickens.
8. Serve
Ladle the beef stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with warm crusty bread for dipping or a side of creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips for Customizing Your Beef Stew
- Add Extra Veggies: Swap or add vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, turnips, or green beans for variety.
- Make it Spicy: Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for some heat.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs like oregano, bay leaves, or paprika to make the stew your own.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the flour with cornstarch or skip it altogether for a gluten-free version.
The Perfect Comfort Food Awaits
This beef stew is truly a one-pot wonder, combining rich flavors with simple preparation. It’s a meal that brings people together, whether served as a weeknight dinner or a special family treat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to tweak it to your heart’s desire.
Get ready to fill your home with heavenly aromas and your belly with pure comfort. Happy cooking!
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