Classic Beef Stew. Hearty and Comforting
There's nothing quite like a hearty beef stew to warm your soul and fill your kitchen with comforting aromas. This classic recipe features tender beef, slow-cooked to perfection with carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich, flavorful broth. It's a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner, especially on those chilly evenings when you need something that truly satisfies. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this beef stew will become a go-to recipe for anyone looking to cook their own wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the Beef. Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. This step ensures a good sear.
Brown the Meat. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, browning all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables. In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Deglaze the Pot. Pour in the red wine, if using, and stir to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Add the Broth and Tomato Paste. Stir in the tomato paste, then add the beef broth. Return the browned beef to the pot.
Add the Vegetables and Seasonings. Add the carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well to combine.
Thicken the Stew. In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a bit of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the stew to thicken the sauce.
Simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Finish and Serve. Remove the bay leaves, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Recipe tips
For even more depth of flavor, sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which helps develop a rich, caramelized crust on the meat. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the potatoes directly in the pot before serving. Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried ones for a brighter flavor. Add them towards the end of cooking to retain their freshness.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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