Classic Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
• 2 cups carrots, sliced
• 2 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 2 cups celery, chopped
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat Oil:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the Meat:
   • Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot in batches (do not overcrowd) and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

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Step 3: Build the Stew

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and any remaining salt and pepper.
2. Add Vegetables:
   • Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery.

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Step 4: Simmer the Stew

1. Bring to a Boil:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cover and Simmer:
   • Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally.

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Step 5: Add Peas and Thicken (Optional)

1. Add Peas:
   • About 10 minutes before serving, add the peas to the stew and stir.
2. Thicken (Optional):
   • If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with a little water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until thickened.

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Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish:
   • Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the beef stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve the beef stew with crusty bread, over rice, or with a side salad for a complete meal.

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Tips:

• Storage: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty Beef Stew!