Classic Beef Stew Recipe

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:

• 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

1. Meat Selection: Choose a well-marbled cut of beef, like chuck roast, for the best flavor and tenderness.
2. 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.
3. Slow Cooking: Simmer the stew gently over low heat to ensure the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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!