Beef Stew Recipe

Beef stew is the epitome of comfort food, ideal for cozy evenings or family gatherings. This hearty dish combines tender beef chunks with a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a rich broth. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that not only warms your body but also delights your taste buds. Whether served with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes, this beef stew is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Here is the list of ingredients.

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 2 hours.

Nutritional Value

One serving of beef stew (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Start by cutting 2 pounds of beef chuck into 1-inch cubes.
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
4. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.
5. Remove the beef and set aside.
6. In the same pot, sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until translucent.
7. Add 3 chopped carrots, 2 chopped potatoes, and 1 chopped bell pepper.
8. Stir in 4 cups of beef broth and return the beef to the pot.
9. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and a few sprigs of fresh thyme.
10. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours until the beef is tender.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily substitute beef chuck with stew meat or even use chicken for a lighter version. Additionally, feel free to add seasonal vegetables like mushrooms or green beans for more flavor and nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

This beef stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed green vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave until heated through. Beef stew can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to cool it completely before freezing.

Cooking Mistakes

• Don’t rush the browning process; it adds depth of flavor.
• Avoid adding too much liquid at once; adjust as needed.
• Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances the dish significantly.
• Check the beef’s tenderness; simmer longer if needed.
• Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should retain some texture.

Helpful Tips

• Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even cooking.
• Let the stew sit for an hour after cooking; the flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for added flavor.
• Consider adding a splash of red wine for depth.

FAQs

Can I use different cuts of beef?

Yes, you can use various cuts like sirloin or round, but chuck is preferred for its tenderness after cooking. Just ensure the pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.

Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours for tender results.

Can I make beef stew ahead of time?

Yes, beef stew tastes even better the next day as flavors develop. Just store it properly in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What should I serve with beef stew?

Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. A side salad or roasted vegetables can also complement the meal nicely.

How can I thicken my beef stew?

You can thicken the stew by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water, or simply let it simmer uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This beef stew recipe is not only a comforting classic but also a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have a satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to your table.

Beef Stew

This beef stew is a comforting classic, combining tender beef with a medley of vegetables in a rich broth. Perfect for chilly days and family gatherings.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: beef stew, comfort food, hearty meals

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours hours

Total Time: 2 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 onion chopped
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 3 carrots chopped
• 2 potatoes chopped
• 1 bell pepper chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Fresh thyme sprigs

Instructions

• Season the beef with salt and pepper.
• Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
• Brown the beef in batches, then remove and set aside.
• Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until translucent.
• Add carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper; stir for a few minutes.
• Return beef to the pot and pour in beef broth.
• Add tomato paste and thyme; bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat and let simmer for 1.5 hours until the beef is tender.
• Check seasoning and adjust if necessary.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 3g