Can I make this beef stew in an instant pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function for searing and sautéing, then pressure cook for about 35 minutes for tender results.

Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, although it will slightly alter the flavor profile, chicken broth remains a suitable alternative.

Can I add wine to my beef stew?

Sure, red wine can deepen the flavor. Substitute a cup of broth with wine for a more robust stew.

How can I thicken my stew without flour?

You may use cornstarch or reduce the stew by simmering uncovered to thicken naturally.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

By omitting the flour or using a gluten-free alternative, you can easily adapt this stew to be gluten-free.

Easy Beef Stew Recipe: A Simple Comfort Food Classic

Welcome to the warm and hearty world of homemade comfort food. This easy beef stew recipe is your gateway to a culinary classic that combines rich flavors and a simple cooking process. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks, this recipe ensures that preparing a mouth-watering beef stew is just a few steps away. Stay with us to discover how you can transform basic ingredients into a delightful meal.

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Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups beef broth
3 large carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

Equipments

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

How to Make Easy Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the vegetables and beef, and lay them out on your cutting board. Cut the beef chuck into 1-inch cubes, which will ensure even cooking and tenderness in every bite. Next, chop the carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion into uniform sizes to promote even cooking. Mince the garlic cloves to release their aromas during the cooking process. Having everything ready will streamline the actual cooking process and help you create a perfect beef stew.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches to prevent overcrowding and cook them until browned on all sides. This step seals in the flavors and prepares the beef’s texture for stewing. Remove the seared beef from the pot and set it aside. The oil left in the pot will infuse the new layers of flavors as we continue cooking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil, if necessary. Toss in the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics until the onions are translucent and the garlic turns fragrant. This combination will lay the flavor foundation required for a rich tasting beef stew.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomato Paste and Broth

Add two tablespoons of tomato paste into the pot while stirring continuously to coat your aromatic mixture. This step adds a depth of flavor to your stew. Follow by pouring in the beef broth, stirring to blend everything seamlessly. This liquid will act as the medium in which your stew simmers, enhancing flavor and tenderness.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

It’s time to introduce the prepared carrots, potatoes, and bay leaf into your pot. Stir in a teaspoon of dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients are not only nutritional powerhouses but also bring a hearty balance to the beef stew.

Step 6: Simmer the Stew

Return the browned beef to the pot, ensuring that all elements in your stew are well submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the stew to gently simmer for approximately 2 hours on low heat. You can also choose to add flour at this stage if you prefer a thicker stew.

Step 7: Final Touches and Serve

Before serving, discard the bay leaf and give your stew a final taste test for any additional seasoning needed. Use a ladle to scoop the stew into bowls, capturing the perfect balance of chunky beef and tender vegetables, and enjoy every spoonful of this easy beef stew recipe.

How to Serve Easy Beef Stew Recipe

This easy beef stew is best savored warm. Serve with freshly baked bread or over a bed of steamed rice to soak up the flavorful broth. You might also consider pairing it with a light green salad for a well-rounded, substantial meal. To enhance the dining experience, try offering a robust red wine or fresh apple cider on the side.

Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions

To boost the flavors of your beef stew, consider marinating the beef cubes in advance with some herbs and lemon juice for a few hours or overnight. Opt for a high-quality beef broth or make a homemade version, if time allows. Finally, allowing the stew to rest for a few hours before serving or enjoying it the next day will meld the flavors even more beautifully.

Boost Your Protein: High-Protein Beef Stew

Want a protein-packed punch in your meal? You can easily adapt this beef stew recipe to create a high-protein meal by adding legumes such as beans or lentils during the simmering phase. These ingredients not only diversify the texture but also greatly enhance the protein profile of the stew, perfect for those focusing on muscle building or recovery.

Alternatively, consider supplementing the stew with collagen-rich bone broth or even adding a scoop of protein powder specifically designed for cooking. With these small additions, you can transform your cozy comfort food into a nutritional power house, offering an ideal balance between taste and health.

Low Carb Delight: Carb-Conscious Beef Stew

Craving the cozy comfort of beef stew while minding your carb intake? Craft a low-carb beef stew by replacing the potatoes with turnips or cauliflower. These vegetables provide a nourishing texture without the starchy carbohydrates. You can also skip the flour thickening and opt for a more broth-based presentation.

This version is perfect for those following a keto or low-carb diet, allowing you to indulge in all of the hearty, warming flavors of classic beef stew without the extra carbs. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley to gift an extra burst of freshness.

Storage Instructions

Any leftover beef stew should be allowed to cool before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days or can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or in a microwave, adding a bit of broth if the stew has thickened too much, for a fresh and fabulous meal each time.

FAQs

Can I make this beef stew in an instant pot? Absolutely! You can use the sauté function for searing and sautéing, then pressure cook for about 35 minutes for tender results.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth? Yes, although it will slightly alter the flavor profile, chicken broth remains a suitable alternative.
Can I add wine to my beef stew? Sure, red wine can deepen the flavor. Substitute a cup of broth with wine for a more robust stew.
How can I thicken my stew without flour? You may use cornstarch or reduce the stew by simmering uncovered to thicken naturally.
Is this recipe gluten-free? By omitting the flour or using a gluten-free alternative, you can easily adapt this stew to be gluten-free.

Cook and Share Your Thoughts!

With each spoonful of this comforting beef stew, you’ll delve into a warmth that only homestyle cooking can provide. Did you enjoy this easy beef stew recipe? We invite you to share your success and twists in the comments below! If you found this recipe delightful, don’t forget to spread the love by sharing it with your friends and family. Let’s keep the aroma of good food alive, one delicious stew at a time! 🌟