Nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty, Homestyle Beef Stew. This time-honored classic brings together tender beef, root vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, perfect for those cozy, chilly nights. Let’s dive into perfecting this dish!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups red wine
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Large Dutch oven or stew pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Homestyle Beef Stew – Step By Step
Step 1:
Pat Dry and Flour the Beef
Pat the beef cubes dry using paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a nice browning on the meat. Once dry, coat the beef pieces in flour, shaking off any excess. Flour helps the meat to brown better and will also thicken the stew sauce later.
Step 2:
Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven or stew pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the floured beef cubes and sear on all sides until they’re golden brown. Do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which steams the meat instead of browning it.
Step 3:
Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make the stew taste bitter.
Step 4:
Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. These ‘fond’ bits are packed with flavor. Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5:
Add Remaining Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients and then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot.
Step 6:
Simmer the Stew
Cook the stew gently for about 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. The long cooking time allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Homestyle Beef Stew
Serve your Homestyle Beef Stew in deep bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair with crusty bread for an extra hearty meal. Enjoy the rich aromas and the comforting warmth!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For an enhanced flavor, marinate the beef in red wine and herbs overnight. Also, consider adding other vegetables like parsnips or turnips for variety. Remember, low and slow cooking is key to tenderizing the beef.
Boosting Protein: Supercharged Homestyle Beef Stew
To ramp up the protein content without altering the classic flavor, consider adding a can of drained chickpeas or white beans towards the end of the cooking process. These legumes complement the texture and soak up the savory goodness of the stew.
Alternatively, increase the amount of beef or incorporate high-protein vegetables like peas and lentils. This won’t only boost the protein but also add a delicious variety to your stew.
Low-Carb Delight: Homestyle Beef Stew Makeover
If you’re watching your carb intake, replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets. They’ll absorb the stew flavors without adding the starch. You can also include zucchini or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.
Another low-carb tip is to use a light beef broth and reduce the quantity of red wine, which can carry some carbohydrates too.
Storage Instructions
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions for up to three months.
FAQs
- Can I substitute chicken for the beef?
Yes, although it will change the flavor profile, chicken thighs work well for a lighter version. - What is the best wine for beef stew?
Choose a dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for the best taste. - How do I thicken my stew if it’s too thin?
Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to form a slurry and add it to the stew, simmering until it thickens. - Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely, though browning the beef beforehand on the stovetop will enhance the flavors. - Is it necessary to use wine?
Wine deepens the flavor, but if you prefer not to use it, add extra beef broth with a tablespoon of vinegar for acidity.
Bring the Warmth Home: A Final Invitation
This wholesome Homestyle Beef Stew is a hearty demonstration of comfort in a bowl. Perfect for family dinners or just treating yourself, share your thoughts and pictures in the comments, and don’t forget to tag us when you recreate this classic dish!
Homestyle Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- all-purpose flour
- olive oil
- beef broth
- red wine
- carrots
- potatoes
- onions
- garlic
- bay leaves
- thyme
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and coat them in flour, shaking off excess.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil, and brown the beef cubes on all sides, transferring to a plate when done.
- Add onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until onions are translucent.
- Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping browned bits, and add the broth.
- Return beef to the pot, add carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper, then stir.
- Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender.