Introduction

Beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish that embodies the essence of home cooking. It is a classic recipe that showcases the rich flavors of beef simmered in a savory broth with vegetables. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew is easy to prepare and offers a warm, filling meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces: 2 pounds
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Onion, chopped: 1 large
– Carrots, sliced: 3 medium
– Celery, chopped: 2 sticks
– Garlic, minced: 4 cloves
– Beef broth: 4 cups
– Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
– Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons
– Bay leaves: 2
– Thyme: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Potatoes, diced: 2 medium
– Peas: 1 cup

Prep Time

The preparation time for this beef stew is approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time taken to chop the vegetables and prepare the beef.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the beef stew is around 2 to 2.5 hours. This means you can expect a total time of approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes to 2 hours and 50 minutes from prep to finish. This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it great for families or meal prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy your delicious beef stew!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper.

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Garlic and Tomato Paste

Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in beef broth, and add bay leaves, thyme, and additional salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Return the Beef

Add the browned beef back to the pot, bringing everything to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.

Add Vegetables

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add diced potatoes and additional vegetables like peas or green beans.

Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the stew, cooking for a few more minutes until thickened.

Final Seasoning

Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

Notes

Beef Cut Suggestions

Chuck roast or brisket works best due to their flavor and tenderness after slow cooking.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables such as parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms based on your preference.

Storage Tips

Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stew with crusty bread or over egg noodles for a heartier meal.

Cook techniques

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

Selecting a cut of meat like chuck roast or brisket ensures that your stew is flavorful and tender after long cooking times.

Brown the Meat Properly

Searing the beef in batches helps to develop a rich flavor and deep color in the stew. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Layering Flavors

Start by cooking aromatics like onions and garlic before adding the beef. This method enhances the overall flavor profile of the stew.

Deglazing the Pan

After browning the meat, adding wine or broth to the pan helps to lift browned bits off the bottom, contributing to the stew’s depth of flavor.

Using a Dutch Oven

This heavy pot retains heat well, making it ideal for slow-cooking, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

Slow Cooking

Cook the stew low and slow to break down tough meat fibers and allow the flavors to develop. This can be done in the oven or on the stovetop.

Incorporating Vegetables

Adding vegetables like carrots and potatoes at the right time ensures they remain tender and do not become mushy.

Finishing the Stew

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning, adding salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to elevate the dish.

FAQ

Can I use different cuts of beef for stew?

Yes, you can use other cuts like round or sirloin, but chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness after long cooking.

How do I know when the stew is done?

The stew is ready when the meat is fork-tender and the flavors have melded together, usually after several hours of cooking.

Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker by following the same initial steps and then cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I freeze beef stew?

Yes, beef stew can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with beef stew?

Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce.

Conclusion

The beef stew recipe is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its hearty ingredients and robust flavors, it brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with loved ones, this stew is sure to impress and nourish.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Beef Soup

Combine the savory flavors of your beef stew with a variety of vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn for a nutritious soup option.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Adapt the traditional beef stew recipe for a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld over several hours for a convenient and tasty meal.

Beef Stew with Dumplings

Enhance your beef stew by adding fluffy dumplings on top for a hearty and filling dish that everyone will love.

Red Wine Beef Stew

Incorporate red wine into your beef stew for an added depth of flavor, creating a richer and more complex sauce.

Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff

Transform your beef stew into a creamy stroganoff by adding sour cream and mushrooms, served over egg noodles or rice.

Brazilian Beef Stew (Carne de Panela)

Experiment with Brazilian flavors by adding spices like cumin and paprika, along with potatoes and carrots, for a delicious twist on the traditional stew.

Beef Stew Pie

Use the beef stew as a filling for a savory pie, topped with a flaky crust for a delightful variation that’s perfect for dinner parties.