Beef Stew

Introduction:
Dive into a bowl of comfort with this Beef Stew, featuring tender beef simmered with hearty vegetables and rich, savory broth. This classic dish is not only satisfying but also perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!

Inspiration Behind the Recipe:
Beef stew has been a staple in many households, cherished for its warmth and nourishment. It’s a dish that brings families together, often served on cold days when you need something hearty and filling.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• For the Stew:
  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 3-4 potatoes, diced
  • 2-3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, can replace with more broth)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Brown the Beef:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, searing them on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer:
   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined. If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
6. Serve:
   Ladle the beef stew into bowls and enjoy it with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast is ideal for stew because it becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks.
2. Brown the Meat: Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds depth of flavor to the stew.
3. Slow Cook: For best results, consider using a slow cooker or Dutch oven for longer cooking times, which deepens the flavor.

Variations and Customizations:

1. Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance the flavor profile.
2. Different Vegetables: Customize your stew with seasonal vegetables like mushrooms, green beans, or parsnips.
3. Thicker Stew: For a thicker consistency, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:

• Lean Cuts: Opt for lean cuts of beef to reduce the fat content.
• Vegetable Boost: This stew is packed with vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for family dinners.

FAQ:

1. Can I use frozen beef?
   Yes, you can use frozen beef, but make sure to thaw it before browning for the best results.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze beef stew?
   Yes, beef stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Beef Stew

Savor the rich flavors of Hearty Beef Stew, a comforting dish filled with tender beef and fresh vegetables that warms you from the inside out! Perfect for family dinners, this recipe is a classic that everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds stewing beef trimmed and cubed
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion chopped
• 6 cups beef broth
• ½ cup red wine optional
• 1 pound potatoes peeled and cubed
• 4 carrots cut into 1 inch pieces
• 4 ribs celery cut into 1 inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 sprig fresh
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or as needed
• 2 tablespoons water or as needed
• ¾ cup peas

Instructions

 

• Combine flour, garlic powder and salt & pepper. Toss beef in flour mixture.
• Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot. Cook the beef and onions until browned.
• Add beef broth and red wine while scraping up any brown bits in the pan.
• Stir in all remaining ingredients except for peas, cornstarch and water. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer 1 hour or until beef is tender (up to 90 minutes).
• Mix equal parts cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the boiling stew to reach desired consistency (you may not need all of the slurry, if you’d like a thicker stew, you can add extra).
• Stir in peas and simmer 5-10 minutes before serving . Season with salt & pepper to taste.

Notes

Beef stew meat is often made from the ends of different cuts of beef. If your beef is not tender after 60 minutes, cover and allow to simmer an additional 15-20 minutes or until tender.

 

Nutrition Information

Calories: 444 | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 383mg | Potassium: 1105mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 5755IU | Vitamin C: 27.1mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 5.5mg

Keyword Beef Stew