When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a bowl of old-fashioned beef stew. It’s a classic dish loaded with tender chunks of beef and hearty vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a make-ahead meal, this stew is sure to warm both your heart and stomach.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful stew, you’ll need a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather the following:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
Equipments
Ensure you have these kitchen tools ready:
- Large Dutch oven or stockpot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Ladle
How to Make Old-Fashioned Beef Stew – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin by ensuring your beef chuck is cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. This cooking method will ensure even cooking and tender results. Coat the beef pieces with three tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Flour will help the beef brown better, and later it will also thicken the stew as it cooks. Use your hands to ensure each piece is well-coated.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown each side, which should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. This process is essential as browning caramelizes the surface sugars, enhancing the beef’s flavor. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. The onions will start releasing their flavors, creating an aromatic base for your stew. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the beef broth and water, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any flavorful browned bits. This deglazing process enriches the stew with deep layers of flavor. Add tomato paste, bay leaves, dried thyme, and the seared beef. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Simmer the Stew
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. This slow cooking renders the beef cubes tender while allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally, ensuring the stew doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
After 1.5 hours, add sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and celery to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender. The potatoes will help thicken the broth, turning it into a luscious, gravy-like consistency.
Step 7: Final Touches
Five minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Peas add a vibrant color and slight sweetness, balancing the stew’s rich flavors. Discard the bay leaves before serving.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
Serve this old-fashioned beef stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an added pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread to mop up the delicious gravy, or enjoy it on its own in a big cozy bowl.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best flavor, be patient with the browning process of the beef, as it significantly enhances the stew’s taste. Use a quality beef broth as it serves as the stew’s flavor backbone. Feel free to customize by incorporating other vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a twist.
Pumped Up Protein: Beef Stew for the Fitness Focused
Want to up the protein content of this dish for post-workout replenishment? Consider adding beans or lentils during the final stages of cooking. They meld seamlessly with the existing ingredients while providing an extra protein punch. Opt for low-sodium broth and leaner beef cuts to maintain health benefits.
Trim the Carbs: A Low-Carb Twist on Beef Stew
Looking for a low-carb version of this classic? Swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets. The cauliflower will soak up the stew’s flavors while keeping the carbs count low. You can also incorporate zucchini and red bell peppers for added color and texture, transforming it into a nutrient-dense delight.
Storage Instructions
Once cooled, store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to three months. Simply defrost and reheat gently on the stove or microwave for a quick, comforting meal.
FAQs
- Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further. Prepare it a day early and reheat gently before serving.
- What can I substitute for beef broth?
You can use chicken or vegetable broth as alternatives, though they may alter the stew’s flavor slightly.
- Is it necessary to brown the beef?
Browning the beef enhances the stew’s flavor with deep, caramelized notes. It’s worth the extra step!
- Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply brown the beef first and then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- How can I thicken the stew further?
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- all-purpose flour
- olive oil
- large onion
- garlic
- beef broth
- water
- tomato paste
- large carrots
- medium potatoes
- celery
- bay leaves
- dried thyme
- salt
- black pepper
- frozen peas
Instructions
Steps
- Cut beef into 1-inch cubes and coat with flour.
- In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil and brown the beef in batches.
- Add onions and garlic to the pot; sauté until soft.
- Pour in beef broth and water, then stir in tomato paste.
- Return beef to the pot and add bay leaves and thyme.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours.
- Add carrots, potatoes, and celery; simmer for 30-40 more minutes.
- Stir in peas 5 minutes before serving and adjust seasoning.