Beef Stew Recipe: A Comforting and Hearty Classic
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Beef Stew to soothe your soul and satisfy your appetite. Packed with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this classic dish is the ultimate comfort food for cold nights or when you’re craving a home-cooked meal.
Made with simple ingredients and a bit of patience, this beef stew develops incredible depth of flavor as it simmers slowly. Pair it with crusty bread or serve it over mashed potatoes for an unforgettable dinner that’s both filling and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: Slow cooking brings out the deep, savory flavors in the beef and broth.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, vegetables, and hearty ingredients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!
- Customizable: Swap veggies or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (or additional broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 large carrots, sliced into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot in batches, browning all sides (about 5 minutes per batch). Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Broth
- Return the beef to the pot and sprinkle with flour (if using). Stir well to coat.
- Add the beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Simmer uncovered for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the broth thickens slightly.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Chef’s Tips
- Use the Right Cut: Beef chuck is ideal for stews as it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Deglaze the Pot: Scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot when adding the wine or broth for extra flavor.
- Thicker Stew: Add more flour or a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- With Bread: Serve with a crusty baguette or buttery biscuits to soak up the broth.
- Over Sides: Ladle the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal.
- As Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days—reheating brings out even more flavor!
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.
- Add Spice: Stir in cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Different Veggies: Add parsnips, turnips, or green beans for variety.
Beef Stew Recipe: A Comforting and Hearty Classic