Easy Beef Stew Recipe: A Cozy Comfort Food Classic
Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this easy beef stew recipe! This classic dish is surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. No need for exotic spices or hard-to-find produce!
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes. Choose a cut with some marbling for extra flavor and tenderness. Chuck roast is a great option.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped – Adds color, sweetness, and nutrients.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Provides a subtle earthy flavor and texture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for a rich and savory taste.
- 4 cups beef broth – Creates the flavorful base of the stew. You can use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but highly recommended) – Adds depth of flavor and richness. If omitting, substitute with an extra cup of beef broth.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste – Adds a hint of tanginess and deepens the color.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – A classic herb pairing for beef stew.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary – Adds a slightly piney aroma and flavor.
- 1 bay leaf – Provides a subtle, aromatic touch.
- 1 tsp salt – Adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground is best!
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed – Adds heartiness and substance to the stew.
- 1 cup frozen peas – Adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step helps develop a rich flavor. Set aside the browned beef.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the Flavor Base: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Then, add the beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the browned beef to the pot. If using flour as a thickener, whisk it into a small amount of cold water to form a slurry, and add it to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
- Add Potatoes: About 30 minutes before serving, add the potatoes to the stew. Continue to simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping!
Tips for the Best Beef Stew:
- Don't overcrowd the pot when browning the beef. Work in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor.
- Low and slow is key. Simmering the stew for a longer period of time results in incredibly tender beef.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste. Start with the amounts listed and add more salt or pepper as needed.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious stew.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Mushrooms, turnips, parsnips, or sweet potatoes would be delicious additions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream at the end.
This easy beef stew recipe is a perfect example of how a simple dish can be incredibly satisfying and delicious. Enjoy!
