Hearty and Flavorful Beef Stew Recipe for Comfort in Every Bite
Warm up your kitchen and satisfy your taste buds with this hearty beef stew recipe. Packed with tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and savory broth, this comforting stew is perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a wholesome and satisfying meal. Let's dive into the world of slow-cooked goodness and create a bowl of comfort that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds stewing beef, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
- In a bowl, combine the stewing beef with flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the beef is coated evenly.
2. Brown the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated beef chunks and brown them on all sides. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Remove browned beef and set aside.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and aromatic.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour in red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
5. Build the Stew Base:
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Add beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer and Cook:
- Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Add Vegetables:
- Add carrots, potatoes, and celery to the stew. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 30-45 minutes.
8. Final Touch:
- Stir in frozen peas and let them cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Garnish:
- Discard bay leaves and ladle the beef stew into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
10. Enjoy the Comfort:
- Serve the beef stew piping hot, and savor the comforting flavors with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Beef Stew:
- Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional beef broth.
- Slow Cooker Option: This stew can also be cooked in a slow cooker for convenience. Brown the beef and sauté onions and garlic on the stovetop before transferring everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Now that you've mastered the art of making a hearty beef stew, cozy up and enjoy the warmth and richness of this comforting dish. Whether it's a family dinner or a quiet evening by the fire, this beef stew is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to your table.
