Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

When the weather turns cool, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade beef stew. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe is a true classic that has stood the test of time. If you’re craving a dish that’s both filling and flavorful, you’re in for a treat! This recipe walks you through everything you need to know to make the perfect beef stew at home—from choosing the right ingredients to nailing the perfect presentation. Keep reading to discover how to make this comforting dish step by step!

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What is Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a slow-cooked, one-pot meal that’s packed with tender chunks of beef, vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and a savory broth that’s been simmered to perfection. Traditionally, this dish has been a staple of hearty home cooking, passed down through generations for its simplicity and satisfying flavors. While beef stew may vary slightly depending on the region or family recipe, the basics remain the same: slow-cooked beef, vegetables, and broth, all mingling together to create a deeply flavorful and comforting dish.

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Ingredients List for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make the best Old Fashioned Beef Stew:

• 2 lbs of beef chuck or stew meat, cubed
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of beef broth (or stock)
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup of red wine (optional, for added depth)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the meat)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful dish that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove for hours—because it has!

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Substitutions and Variations

While the traditional Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe is delicious as is, there are several substitutions and variations you can try to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

Meat Substitutions

• Lamb: Swap out beef for lamb for a different flavor profile that’s equally rich.
• Chicken or Turkey: Use poultry for a lighter version of this stew, though you may need to reduce the cooking time as poultry cooks faster than beef.
• Plant-Based Option: Replace the beef with plant-based protein or hearty mushrooms like portobello or shiitake for a vegetarian version. You can also use seitan or tempeh for a vegan alternative.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Sweet Potatoes: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Parsnips: For a twist, replace some or all of the carrots with parsnips.
• Mushrooms: Add mushrooms for extra earthiness.

Broth Variations

• Chicken Broth: You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the meat.

Spice Adjustments

• Smoked Paprika: Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper: If you like it spicy, a pinch of cayenne or chili powder will do the trick.

Feel free to experiment with these substitutions and variations to make the stew uniquely yours.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the cooking process into simple, easy-to-follow steps. The key to a great beef stew is allowing the ingredients to simmer together for a long period of time, giving the flavors a chance to develop and deepen.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your cubed beef with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot pot. Brown the beef on all sides for 3-5 minutes. This step helps lock in the juices and adds rich flavor to the stew. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add your chopped onion, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. The onion should become translucent, and the garlic should release its aroma.

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat them. Add the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step thickens the stew and enhances its rich color and flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine (Optional)

Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This is where the stew starts to build its deep, complex flavors. Allow the wine to reduce slightly for 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Broth and Beef

Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir everything together. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 6: Simmer

Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender the beef will become. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 7: Add Potatoes

About 30 minutes before the stew is done, add the diced potatoes. Continue to simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, and the beef is melt-in-your-mouth soft.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can have pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making beef stew:

Mistake 1: Not Browning the Meat

Browning the meat is crucial for flavor development. Don’t skip this step, and make sure your pan is hot enough to achieve a good sear.

Mistake 2: Overcooking the Vegetables

To avoid mushy vegetables, don’t add the potatoes too early. They only need about 30 minutes to cook through.

Mistake 3: Using Low-Quality Beef

The quality of your beef makes a huge difference. Opt for a well-marbled cut like chuck or stew meat for the best results.

Mistake 4: Rushing the Cooking Time

Stew is meant to be slow-cooked. Rushing the process will result in tough meat and underdeveloped flavors.

Mistake 5: Skimping on Seasoning

Don’t be shy with your seasonings! A well-seasoned stew will taste miles better than one that lacks salt and herbs.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your Old Fashioned Beef Stew is cooked to perfection, it’s time to think about how to serve and present it. Proper presentation can elevate a simple stew into a dinner-party-worthy dish.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Family Style: Serve the stew in a large, rustic bowl in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
• Individually Plated: For a more formal presentation, ladle the stew into individual bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Presentation Ideas for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread or a loaf of French baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• Mashed Potatoes: Instead of serving potatoes in the stew, you can pour the beef stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of lightly steamed green beans or peas for a pop of color and freshness.

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Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: Beef stew actually tastes better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance and reheat it for even richer flavors.
• Freeze for Later: This stew freezes beautifully! Simply let it cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Thicken the Stew: If your stew is too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like peas, green beans, or celery during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! To make Old Fashioned Beef Stew in a slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Can I omit the wine?

A: Yes, the wine is optional. You can substitute it with additional broth or a bit of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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Conclusion

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the perfect recipe for those chilly nights when you need a hearty, comforting meal. With tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and a broth that’s rich and savory, this dish is a timeless classic for a reason. Whether you stick to the traditional ingredients or experiment with variations, you’ll end up with a delicious meal that’s sure to please. Try it today, and don’t forget to savor every spoonful!

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