Easy Beef Stew Recipe on the Stovetop: A 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, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe focuses on simplicity and deliciousness, making it ideal for even the busiest weeknights. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times – this stovetop stew is ready in under an hour!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to prepare. You likely already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes: Choose a cut that's naturally tough, as it will become wonderfully tender during the cooking process. Chuck roast or beef shank work perfectly.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Provides a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes a subtle earthy flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A pungent flavor enhancer.
- 4 cups beef broth: Provides the liquid base for the stew. Low-sodium is best for controlling the saltiness.
- 1 cup red wine (optional): Adds complexity and depth of flavor. If omitting, add an extra cup of beef broth.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Adds richness and body to the stew.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: A classic herb pairing for beef stew.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary: Another aromatic herb that complements the beef.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle earthiness and complexity.
- 1 tsp salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional): For thickening the stew.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Added at the end for a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying 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 a rich flavor. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot. Remove the browned beef from the pot 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 occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine and Simmer:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Return the beef to the pot.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using).
- Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is incredibly tender.
4. Thicken (Optional):
- If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the stew during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
5. 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: Browning the beef in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Low and slow is key: Simmering the stew allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become incredibly tender.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is crucial. Taste the stew before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as potatoes, mushrooms, or turnips.
This easy beef stew recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
