Why Make This Recipe
Big Papa’s Homemade Beef Stew is the perfect dish for warming up on cold days. It’s hearty, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients. This stew is a family favorite, bringing everyone together at the dinner table. The tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs create a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a great way to use up meat and veggies you have at home.
How to Make Big Papa’s Homemade Beef Stew
Making Big Papa’s Homemade Beef Stew is straightforward and requires just a few steps. Follow this simple recipe and enjoy a delicious homemade meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the beef and sear on all sides until browned.
- Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Big Papa’s Homemade Beef Stew
Serve Big Papa’s Homemade Beef Stew hot in bowls. You can add fresh bread on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of pepper on top can also add a nice touch.
How to Store Big Papa’s Homemade Beef Stew
To store leftovers, allow the stew to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Big Papa’s Homemade Beef Stew
- For extra flavor, marinate the beef in the herbs and spices before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for more variety.
- If you like a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with some water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variation
You can make a hearty vegetable stew by leaving out the beef and adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini. This is great for vegetarian diets.
FAQs
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or chicken instead of beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is it necessary to brown the beef?
Browning the beef adds extra flavor and richness to the stew. While you can skip this step, it’s highly recommended for the best taste.
Homemade Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes Use a good quality beef chuck for best results.
- 4 cups beef broth Homemade or store-bought beef broth works.
- 4 medium carrots, sliced Fresh carrots add sweetness.
- 3 medium potatoes, diced Use waxy potatoes for better texture.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Choose a sweet onion for milder flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended.
- 1 teaspoon thyme Dried or fresh thyme can be used.
- 1 teaspoon rosemary Dried or fresh rosemary works.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning based on preference.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 leaf bay leaf Remove before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the beef and sear on all sides until browned.
- Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes.
Cooking
- Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy!