Beef Stew Recipe: A Cozy Stovetop Classic
Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this classic beef stew recipe, perfectly crafted for your stovetop. This recipe focuses on achieving rich, deep flavors without complicated techniques, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. Let's dive in!
Ingredients for a Mouthwatering Beef Stew
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings of delicious beef stew. Adjust the quantities as needed to suit your needs.
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes. Choosing a cut like chuck or bottom round ensures a tender and flavorful stew.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A healthy fat that adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds subtle earthiness and texture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A pungent flavor boost.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Adds richness and a subtle tang.
- 4 cups beef broth: The base of our flavorful stew. Low-sodium is preferred.
- 1 cup red wine (optional): Adds complexity and depth. If omitting, add an extra cup of beef broth.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: A classic herb pairing with beef.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary: Another excellent herb complementing the beef.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle, savory note.
- 1 tsp salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed: A hearty addition to soak up the rich flavors.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Added at the end for a touch of freshness and vibrant green color.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Your Perfect Beef Stew
This recipe is designed for easy stovetop cooking, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Follow these simple steps for a delicious result.
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step develops a rich flavor and enhances the overall taste of the stew. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Flavor Base
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 - 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
Step 4: Adding the Potatoes
After the beef has simmered for at least 1.5 hours, add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. This ensures they retain their vibrant color and texture. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 6: Serving Your Delicious Creation
Serve your hearty beef stew hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!
Tips for an Even Better Beef Stew
- Use a good quality beef stew meat: The cut of beef significantly impacts the final result.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with vegetables: Add other root vegetables like turnips or parsnips.
- A slow cooker is also a great option: If you prefer, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! It’s perfect for meal prepping.
Enjoy this delicious and comforting beef stew recipe! Remember to share your culinary creations with us – we'd love to see your photos! Happy cooking!
