Beef Stew Recipe

When you're craving a cozy, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, Beef Stew is a classic go-to dish. Packed with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this recipe is perfect for a family dinner, a weekend meal, or anytime you need a bowl of comfort. Whether it's a chilly night or a rainy day, this Classic Beef Stew is sure to satisfy. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide, tips, variations, and everything you need to know to make the best beef stew from scratch!

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What is Beef Stew?

Beef stew is a slow-cooked dish that features bite-sized chunks of beef, usually simmered with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions in a flavorful broth or sauce. It's the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich and hearty meal that’s perfect on its own or served with crusty bread for dipping. The beef becomes incredibly tender after simmering, while the vegetables absorb all the delicious flavors of the broth. Whether cooked on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot, beef stew is a classic dish enjoyed worldwide.

Ingredients List for Beef Stew

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a delicious and flavorful beef stew:

For the Stew:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast (or stew meat): Cut into 1 ½-inch cubes. Chuck roast is ideal for stew because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the meat.
• 1 large onion: Diced.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced.
• 4 cups beef broth: Low-sodium is best to control the salt level.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds depth of flavor to the stew.
• 1 cup red wine (optional): Adds richness and depth to the stew. You can substitute with more beef broth if you prefer.
• 3 large carrots: Peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks.
• 4 medium potatoes: Peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks.
• 2 stalks celery: Chopped.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle flavor to the broth.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: For a hint of herbal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Complements the beef beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons flour: For thickening the stew.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

Optional Ingredients:

• Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Peas: Stir in ½ cup frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Pearl onions: Use instead of diced onions for a sweeter flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize your stew? Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Meat: You can substitute beef with lamb or pork for a different flavor. Boneless short ribs or oxtail also make an excellent stew.
• Vegetables: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
• No wine? If you don't want to use wine, you can replace it with additional beef broth or even some apple cider for a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening, or skip the flour altogether if you prefer a thinner broth.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making beef stew is a simple process, but it requires some time for the flavors to develop. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect beef stew:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
• Season the beef chunks generously with salt and pepper. Working in batches, add the beef to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this can prevent browning.
• Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

• In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Paste and Wine

• Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for about 1-2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
• Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Beef

• Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in 4 cups of beef broth. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

• Once the broth is simmering, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir to combine.
• Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

• If you want a thicker stew, make a slurry by whisking 2 tablespoons of flour with a small amount of cold water or broth to form a smooth paste. Stir the slurry into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking and let it thicken.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

• Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Cook Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide

To break it down into simple steps:

1. Brown the beef for rich, deep flavor.
2. Sauté aromatics like onion and garlic for a flavor base.
3. Deglaze with wine or broth to scrape up the browned bits.
4. Simmer low and slow for tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.
5. Thicken the stew if desired for a heartier consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not browning the beef: Don’t skip browning the beef. This step adds depth and flavor to the stew, so take your time to brown it properly.
• Overcrowding the pot: When browning the beef, work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding steams the meat instead of browning it.
• Adding vegetables too early: If you add vegetables too early, they can become mushy. Add them once the broth is simmering to ensure they stay tender but not overcooked.
• Not simmering long enough: Beef stew requires time for the meat to become tender and for the flavors to meld together. Don’t rush the cooking process.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Beef stew is a hearty, one-pot meal, but there are a few ways to serve and present it that can elevate the dining experience.

How to Serve Beef Stew

• With crusty bread: Serve the stew with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
• Over mashed potatoes: For an even more comforting meal, serve the beef stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
• With rice or egg noodles: Beef stew also pairs well with steamed rice or buttered egg noodles for a hearty twist.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Stew

• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or even chives adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Use rustic bowls: Serve the stew in rustic, deep bowls for a cozy, homestyle presentation.
• Top with sour cream: A dollop of sour cream can add a creamy richness and balance the savory flavors.

Beef Stew Recipe Tips

• Use a Dutch oven: A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven is perfect for beef stew because it retains heat well and cooks the meat evenly.
• Make it ahead: Beef stew tastes even better the next day. If you can, make the stew a day ahead and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge.
• Freeze leftovers: Beef stew freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.

Q: Can I make beef stew without wine?
A: Yes, you can replace the wine with extra beef broth or water. The wine adds richness, but it's not essential.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

**Q

: Can I freeze beef stew?**
A: Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Classic Beef Stew recipe is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth, this stew is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you cook it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, beef stew is an easy meal that delivers big on flavor. Try it tonight, and enjoy the cozy warmth of this delicious stew!

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