![Classic Beef Stew Recipe](https://askinz.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Default_Classic_Beef_Stew_Recipe_1.jpg)
Beef stew is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly days. This recipe features tender chunks of beef, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth.
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef:
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- Season the beef cubes with salt and black pepper.
- Dredge the beef in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Brown the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. Add the Vegetables:
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Finish the Stew:
- Stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the beef stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Beef Stew
- Meat Selection: Choose a well-marbled cut of beef, like chuck roast, for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Browning the Beef: Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the stew. Don’t skip this step and be patient to get a good sear on all sides.
- Slow Cooking: Simmer the stew gently over low heat to ensure the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
- Vegetable Timing: Add the vegetables at the right time so they don’t become mushy. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes should be added later in the cooking process.
- Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Storage: Beef stew tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy this classic beef stew as a warm and comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings!
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