Easy Beef Stew Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
Are you craving a hearty, warming meal that's both delicious and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this easy beef stew recipe! This classic comfort food is perfect for a chilly evening and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you to stew success.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. You probably already have many of them in your pantry!
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes. Choose a cut that's known for its tenderness, like chuck roast or bottom round.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – A good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of your stew.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Yellow or white onions work best.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped – Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Provides a subtle savory flavor and texture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for a flavorful base.
- 4 cups beef broth – Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but highly recommended!) – Adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste – Adds richness and a hint of tanginess.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – A classic herb for beef stew.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary – Adds a woodsy aroma and flavor.
- 1 bay leaf – Provides a subtle earthy note (remove before serving).
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed – Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work well.
- 1 cup frozen peas – Added at the end for freshness and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously throughout the cooking process.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly delicious beef stew:
1. Brown the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step helps to develop rich flavor. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Flavor Base:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps to prevent burning.
- Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer to Perfection:
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor will be!
5. Add the Potatoes:
- Add the cubed potatoes to the stew and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Finish and Serve:
- Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Beef Stew:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Browning the beef in batches ensures even browning and avoids steaming instead of searing.
- Use a good quality beef broth: This significantly impacts the overall flavor of your stew.
- Low and slow is key: Simmering the stew on low heat allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become incredibly tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste the stew throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, herbs, or spices to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe.
Enjoy your delicious and easy beef stew! It's the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Remember to share your culinary creations on social media and tag us! #beefstew #comfortfood #easyrecipe #homecooking
