Beef Stew Recipe

Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

Beef stew is a classic comfort food, known for its rich flavors and tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef. This recipe creates a flavorful and satisfying stew that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy a hearty meal that warms both the body and soul. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps in getting a good sear on the meat.
   • Season the beef generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Meat:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Add the beef cubes in batches (don’t overcrowd the pot) and sear them on all sides until browned. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • If using red wine, pour it into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Combine Ingredients:
   • Return the seared beef to the pot.
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a couple of minutes to enhance its flavor.
6. Add Vegetables and Liquids:
   • Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, and beef broth.
   • Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Simmer:
   • Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally.
8. Thicken the Stew:
   • To thicken the stew, mix the flour with 1 cup of water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this mixture into the stew.
   • Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your liking.
9. Add Peas and Season:
   • Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
   • Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
10. Serve:
    • Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Beef Stew:

• Choosing the Right Beef: Beef chuck is ideal for stews because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
• Searing the Meat: Don’t skip searing; it adds a depth of flavor to the stew.
• Vegetable Cuts: Try to cut the vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Flavor Enhancements: For added richness, you can include a bit of beef demi-glace or a splash of balsamic vinegar.

This beef stew recipe is a reliable choice for a hearty meal, offering both comforting flavors and a satisfying texture. Enjoy!