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Introduction
Beef stew with cornbread dumplings is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This hearty meal combines tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and the delightful texture of cornbread dumplings. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that evokes a sense of home and tradition.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Beef chuck roast: 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Onion: 1 medium, chopped
– Carrots: 3, sliced
– Celery stalks: 2, sliced
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Beef broth: 4 cups
– Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
– Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons
– Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
– Bay leaves: 2
– Cornmeal: 1 cup
– All-purpose flour: 1 cup
– Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
– Sugar: 1 tablespoon
– Milk: 1 cup
– Eggs: 2
– Salt: 1 teaspoon
– Pepper: to taste
Prep Time
Preparation for this beef stew with cornbread dumplings takes approximately 20 minutes. This time includes chopping the vegetables and preparing the beef.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the beef stew is about 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender. The total time from prep to serving is approximately 2.5 hours. This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Cut beef into 1-inch pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides. Transfer browned beef to a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to combine. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Make Cornbread Dumplings
In a bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
Step 6: Add Dumplings to Stew
Drop spoonfuls of the cornbread mixture on top of the simmering stew. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking to ensure the dumplings rise properly.
Step 7: Serve
Once dumplings are cooked through, remove the bay leaves from the stew. Ladle stew into bowls and serve hot.
Notes
Note 1: Beef Cut Recommendations
Use beef chuck for a tender and flavorful stew, but you can also use brisket or round if desired.
Note 2: Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
Note 3: Thicker Stew
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.
Note 4: Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently before serving.
Cook techniques
Sealing the Meat
To enhance flavor, quickly sear the beef in a hot pot until browned on all sides. This technique locks in juices and adds depth to the stew.
Deglazing
After browning the meat, add a small amount of liquid to the pot to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds rich flavors to your stew.
Layering Flavors
Begin by sautéing onions and garlic before adding other ingredients. This builds a foundation of flavor in your dish.
Slow Cooking
Allow the stew to simmer on low heat for an extended period. This breaks down the meat, making it tender and flavorful while allowing the ingredients to meld.
Thickening the Stew
You can thicken the stew by adding a roux or using cornstarch slurry, depending on the desired consistency.
Dumpling Preparation
When making cornbread dumplings, ensure the dough is not overmixed to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
Steaming Dumplings
Place the cornbread dumplings directly on top of the stew during the last part of cooking and cover the pot. This technique allows them to steam, creating a soft and moist dumpling.
Garnishing
Finish the stew with fresh herbs for added color and flavor before serving.
FAQ
Can I use another type of meat for this stew?
Yes, other meats like chicken or pork can be used, but cooking times may vary.
What can I serve with the beef stew?
The beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, salad, or vegetables.
Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors often improve after a day in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
Is it possible to freeze the beef stew?
Yes, the stew can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I store leftover dumplings?
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Conclusion
The beef stew with cornbread dumplings is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender meat and savory flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. The addition of cornbread dumplings not only enhances the texture but also complements the rich stew. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Dumplings
A classic comfort food, chicken and dumplings feature tender chicken cooked in a creamy broth, topped with fluffy dumplings for a satisfying meal.
Vegetable Beef Soup
A lighter option, vegetable beef soup combines chunks of beef with a variety of fresh vegetables, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish that pairs well with cornbread.
Pork Stew with Sweet Potatoes
This savory stew includes tender pork and sweet potatoes, seasoned with herbs and spices, providing a delightful twist on traditional stew recipes.
Beef Stroganoff
Rich and creamy, beef stroganoff features strips of beef cooked in a luscious sauce, served over egg noodles or rice, offering a different yet delicious way to enjoy beef.
Stuffed Peppers
A delicious combination of ground beef, rice, and spices stuffed into bell peppers, baked until tender, making for a great side dish or main course alongside beef stew.
