Why Make This Recipe
Beef stew is a classic dish that everyone loves. It is warm, hearty, and perfect for cold days. Making beef stew is a great way to bring family and friends together. With rich flavors and tender meat, it is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be enjoyed as leftovers!
How to Make Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef and brown on all sides.
- Add the onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the beef broth, then add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve warm.
How to Serve Beef Stew
Serve beef stew hot in bowls. You can add a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can also add a nice touch. Beef stew can be served as a main dish, and it pairs well with a simple salad.
How to Store Beef Stew
If you have leftovers, let the stew cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze beef stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Beef Stew
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine when you add the beef broth.
- Don’t rush the simmering process. The longer it simmers, the more tender the beef becomes.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for more color and nutrition.
Variation
You can make a different version by adding mushrooms or using different types of meat, such as pork or chicken. Adjust the spices to suit your taste as well!
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, you can use cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is the best for stew as it becomes tender when cooked slowly.
Is it necessary to brown the beef?
Browning adds flavor to the stew, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
Can I add herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or add spices like paprika for a kick.
Classic Beef Stew
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A warm and hearty beef stew perfect for cold days, featuring rich flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef and brown on all sides.
- Add the onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the beef broth, then add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 90 to 120 minutes, until the beef is tender.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine when adding the beef broth. Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans.