why make this recipe
Beef stew is a classic comfort food that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something hearty and satisfying. With tender chunks of beef and plenty of vegetables, this stew is a complete meal on its own. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
how to make Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides.
- Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste, then add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and the stew thickens.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your comforting beef stew!
how to serve Beef Stew
Serve the beef stew hot in a bowl. You can enjoy it on its own or with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add a nice touch.
how to store Beef Stew
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The stew will keep for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Beef Stew
- For extra flavor, sear the beef well before adding other ingredients.
- You can use a variety of vegetables, like peas or green beans, to change up the stew.
- Letting the stew sit for a bit after cooking can enhance the flavors.
variation
Try adding red wine or Worcestershire sauce for a richer taste. You can also make a lighter version by using less beef and adding more vegetables.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is great for stewing because it becomes tender.
2. Is it necessary to brown the beef first?
Browning the beef adds depth of flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
3. Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
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 comforting beef stew with tender chunks of beef and vegetables, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides.
- Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste, then add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 90 to 120 minutes, until the beef is tender and the stew thickens.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your comforting beef stew!
Notes
For extra flavor, sear the beef well before adding other ingredients. You can vary the vegetables for different tastes.