Beef stew is a classic comfort food that warms both the body and soul. It’s a hearty dish that combines tender beef, vegetables, and rich broth, making it a perfect meal for chilly days. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a stew that is full of flavor and nutrition.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this beef stew because it’s a simple and cozy dish that is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. It’s not only delicious but also nutritious, as it incorporates vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell amazing while it cooks!
How to Make Beef Stew
Follow these steps to create a delicious beef stew that your family will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups carrots, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef pieces on all sides.
- Remove beef and set aside. In the same pot, add onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, carrots, and potatoes.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
How to Serve Beef Stew
Serve beef stew hot in bowls. You can pair it with a slice of crusty bread or biscuits for dipping. Some people like to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Beef Stew
To store beef stew, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container as it may expand while freezing.
Tips to Make Beef Stew
- For extra flavor, sear the beef well until it gets a nice crust.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans if you like.
- If you want a thicker stew, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variation
You can make a variation of beef stew by adding red wine in place of some beef broth for a richer flavor. You can also try using different herbs, such as oregano or bay leaves, to change the taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef, like brisket or round, but chuck is the best for stewing because it becomes tender and flavorful.
2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Is beef stew gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and ensure that the other ingredients are gluten-free, this dish can be enjoyed by those who are gluten intolerant.
Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces Best cut for stewing
- 4 cups beef broth Use gluten-free if necessary
- 2 cups carrots, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For browning the beef
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef pieces on all sides.
- Remove beef and set aside. In the same pot, add onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, carrots, and potatoes.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 90 to 120 minutes, or until beef is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.