Introduction
Beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly days, it brings together tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich flavors. This recipe showcases how to create a delicious and satisfying beef stew that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 3 potatoes, diced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Prep Time
Preparation for this beef stew takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables and cutting the beef into cubes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for the beef stew is about 2 to 2.5 hours. With the prep time included, the total time to make this dish is roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes. The recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for a family meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes. Trim any excess fat and pat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Sear until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Add minced garlic and tomato paste to the pot. Stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 5: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in red wine to deglaze the pot. Scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Add Broth and Seasonings
Return the seared beef to the pot along with beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Step 7: Simmer the Stew
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Add Potatoes and Cook Further
After the initial simmering time, add diced potatoes to the pot. Continue to cook for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the beef is fork-tender.
Step 9: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with cold water in a separate bowl. Stir this mixture into the stew and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
Step 10: Remove Herbs and Serve
Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs from the pot. Serve the stew hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Note 1: Beef Selection
Choose cuts like chuck roast or brisket for optimal tenderness and flavor.
Note 2: Substitutions
Feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preference, such as adding peas or green beans.
Note 3: Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The stew can also be frozen for longer preservation.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Brown the Beef
To develop a deeper flavor, sear the beef in a hot pan until browned on all sides before adding it to the stew.
Layering Flavors
Build complexity by sautéing aromatics like onions, garlic, and celery, allowing them to soften and release their flavors.
Deglaze the Pan
After browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, pour in a liquid (like broth or wine) to scrape up the flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
Slow Cooking
Use a slow cooker or a low simmer on the stovetop to allow the beef and vegetables to become tender and flavors to meld, enhancing the dish.
Thickening the Stew
Incorporate a thickening agent like a slurry of cornstarch and water or flour to achieve the desired consistency of the stew.
Enhancing Flavor with Herbs
Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, bay leaves, or parsley toward the end of cooking for a burst of flavor without overpowering the stew.
FAQ
Can I use different cuts of beef for stew?
Yes, you can use cuts like chuck, round, or brisket, but choose tougher cuts that benefit from slow cooking.
How long should I cook the beef stew?
Cook the stew for at least 2 to 3 hours on low heat to ensure the meat is tender and flavors are well blended.
Can I make beef stew in a pressure cooker?
Absolutely! A pressure cooker significantly reduces cooking time while still producing tender meat and rich flavors.
What vegetables can I add to beef stew?
You can add a variety of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, peas, and green beans, adjusting based on your preference.
How do I store leftover beef stew?
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Conclusion
Delicious and hearty, beef stew is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, this dish warms both the heart and the soul. Whether served on a chilly evening or as a family gathering centerpiece, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Beef Stew
Enhance your beef stew by adding a variety of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, celery, and potatoes. This not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.
Italian Beef Stew
Incorporate Italian herbs such as oregano and basil, and add diced tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Beef and Barley Stew
Add barley to your beef stew for a heartier texture and nutty flavor. This combination makes for a filling dish that is perfect for colder months.
Spicy Beef Stew
Introduce some heat by adding chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce. A spicy version of beef stew can awaken your taste buds and provide a unique twist.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Prepare your beef stew in a slow cooker for an effortless cooking experience. Simply combine all ingredients and let it cook slowly for hours to develop deep flavors.
Beef Stew with Red Wine
Incorporate red wine into your broth for a richer, deeper flavor. The wine adds complexity and enhances the overall taste of the stew.
Thai Beef Stew
Experiment with flavors by adding coconut milk and curry paste for a delightful Thai-inspired beef stew. Serve it over jasmine rice for a complete meal.