When it comes to comfort food, beef stew egg noodles takes a special place in our hearts. Combining the heartiness of tender beef chunks with the silky texture of egg noodles, this dish is your go-to meal for chilly evenings and family gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a passionate beginner, this step-by-step guide will walk you through creating the perfect beef stew egg noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Strainer
How to Make Beef Stew Egg Noodles – Step By Step
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them until they develop a crispy, brown crust on all sides. This process not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the beef stays tender during cooking. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables start to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to release its wonderful aroma for about a minute before adding the thyme and bay leaf. This step ensures the flavors meld perfectly with the sautéed vegetables and beef.
Step 4: Build the Broth
Return the browned beef to the pot with the vegetables and pour in the beef broth. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and allow it to simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours. This slow cooking renders the beef incredibly tender and infuses the stew with robust flavors.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
With 15 minutes remaining, add the egg noodles into the simmering stew. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and soak up the delicious broth.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once satisfied, remove the bay leaf and get ready to serve up this comforting dish.
How to Serve Beef Stew Egg Noodles
Serve your beef stew egg noodles in a shallow bowl, ensuring ample beef and veggies accompany each helping of noodles. A sprinkle of chopped parsley can be added for a fresh touch. Pair this dish with crusty bread to soak up the savory broth, making every bite a delight.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To elevate your beef stew, make sure to use quality beef stew meat, ideally well-marbled for a tender and flavorful outcome. If you’d like a thicker stew, consider adding a mix of flour and water during the final simmer.
Pumped Up Protein: Bulking Up Your Beef Stew Noodles
If you’re keen on packing some extra protein into your meal, consider adding a can of drained chickpeas or white beans to the stew. These nutritious additions go seamlessly with the flavor profile and contribute to making the dish more filling.
Alternatively, you could increase the beef portion to suit higher protein needs or even throw in some protein-rich mushrooms to complement the robust meaty essence.
Cut the Carbs, Not the Flavor: Low-Carb Beef Stew Twist
For those following a low-carb regimen but still seeking comfort in beef stew, substitute egg noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles, which easily soak up the stew’s flavors and offer a health-conscious alternative.
In addition, swapping the carrot and celery for low-carb veggies such as bell peppers or even baby spinach can keep your dish nutritious and aligned with your carbohydrate goals.
Storage Instructions
Should you have leftovers (lucky you!), the beef stew egg noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, separate the noodles from the stew and store them separately to avoid the noodles becoming mushy. The stew itself can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
FAQs
- Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Q: What can I use instead of beef broth? A: Vegetable broth or chicken broth can be used; however, it may slightly alter the taste.
- Q: Can this stew be made gluten-free? A: Yes, simply ensure you use gluten-free noodles or other carb-free alternatives like zucchini noodles.
- Q: How do I make my stew thicker? A: To thicken your stew, create a slurry with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and water. Stir it into the stew during the final 20 minutes of cooking.
Bring the Warmth to Your Table: Final Thoughts on Beef Stew Egg Noodles
From its rich, savory broth to the tender beef and succulent noodles, beef stew egg noodles is a dish that warms the soul. We invite you to try this recipe and add your personal flair. Whether you choose to add extra protein or opt for a low-carb twist, tagging your creations with #BeefStewNoodles on social media can inspire others. Share your culinary adventure, comment on your experience, and most importantly, enjoy every flavorful bite!
Beef Stew Egg Noodles
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef stew meat
- olive oil
- onion
- carrots
- celery stalks
- garlic
- beef broth
- egg noodles
- salt and pepper
- thyme
- bay leaf
Instructions
Steps
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them until they develop a crispy, brown crust on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to release its aroma for about a minute. Then add thyme and bay leaf.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- With 15 minutes remaining, add the egg noodles into the simmering stew and stir occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf and serve.