Step into the realm of ultimate comfort food with our hearty and soul-warming Beef Stew recipe. Perfect for chilly nights or whenever you’re craving a satisfying meal, this classic dish is a timeless favorite that never fails to please. With tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, each spoonful is guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through crafting this iconic dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (900g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Season the beef stew meat generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), and stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the pot, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the bay leaves from the pot, and discard.
- Serve the Beef Stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Meat Variation: Experiment with different cuts of beef for your stew. Chuck roast, bottom round, or brisket are all excellent choices that become tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to customize your Beef Stew with your favorite vegetables. Turnips, parsnips, and mushrooms are all delicious additions that add depth of flavor to the dish.
- Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Slow Cooker Method: To make Beef Stew in a slow cooker, follow steps 1-4 to brown the meat and sauté the vegetables. Transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: For a keto-friendly Beef Stew, omit the potatoes and use low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or green beans instead. You can also thicken the stew with a keto-friendly thickener such as xanthan gum or glucomannan powder.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of potatoes or omit them altogether to lower the carb content of the stew. Focus on using low-carb vegetables and consider using a low-carb beef broth or bone broth to further reduce the carb count.
With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, Beef Stew is a classic dish that never goes out of style. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter’s night or as a hearty meal any time of year, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and fill your home with delicious aromas. So gather your ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and get ready to savor the simple pleasures of homemade Beef Stew.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this stew? A: Yes, you can use lamb, pork, or even chicken in place of beef for your stew. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.
Q: Can I make this stew ahead of time and reheat it later? A: Absolutely! In fact, many people find that stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this stew? A: Yes, Beef Stew freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I add other herbs and spices to this stew? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavor of your stew with your favorite herbs and spices. Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves are classic choices, but you can also experiment with flavors like sage, marjoram, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Q: Can I make this stew vegetarian or vegan? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of this stew by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add extra vegetables or legumes such as lentils or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.
Q: Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh? A: While fresh vegetables are preferred for optimal flavor and texture, you can certainly use canned vegetables if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the stew, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this stew in a pressure cooker? A: Yes, you can make Beef Stew in a pressure cooker such as an Instant Pot. Simply follow the instructions for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes, followed by a natural release.
Q: Can I serve this stew with bread or rice? A: Absolutely! Beef Stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a fluffy mound of mashed potatoes. You can also serve it over cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal.
With these helpful tips and answers to common questions, you’re well-equipped to embark on your culinary adventure with Beef Stew. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this timeless dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
