When it comes to heartwarming, comforting dishes, a rich and robust beef stew surely takes the spotlight. This mouth-watering recipe combines tender chunks of beef with an aromatic medley of vegetables, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Ideal for chilly evenings or a family dinner, it’s a one-pot wonder that delivers on both flavor and convenience. Ready to dive into this culinary delight?
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Best Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Begin by seasoning your beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat a bit of oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each piece until it forms a golden brown crust on all sides. This will take about 5 minutes per batch. The browning process is crucial as it adds depth and flavor to your stew.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
After removing the beef, add onions to the pot and sauté them until they become translucent, about 4 minutes. Introduce the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, ensuring not to burn them. Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for a couple of minutes to release its rich flavors.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the beef to the pot, along with the seared aromatics. Add in the carrots, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaves. Pour over the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These bits carry immense flavor, integral to the stew’s taste.
Step 4: Simmer It All Together
Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simber for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have mingled together beautifully. Stir occasionally and add more broth if necessary to maintain the right consistency.
How to Serve Best Beef Stew Recipe
Serve the stew hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added freshness and color. It’s delightful as is, but pairing it with crusty bread can make it even more hearty and filling, perfect for soaking up every last bit of the deeply flavored broth.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For even richer flavors, marinate the beef in red wine and herbs an hour before cooking. To save time, consider prepping the vegetables in advance. If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few of the potatoes in the last half hour of cooking.
Power-Packed Protein: High Protein Beef Stew Bonanza
Want to amp up the protein content? Simply add some cooked beans like cannellini or kidney beans during the final 20 minutes of cooking. This not only boosts the stew’s nutritional profile but also adds a creamy texture.
Carbohydrate-Free Comfort: Low Carb Beef Stew Delight
For a low-carb twist, substitute potatoes with turnips or cauliflower. Not only do they absorb the beefy flavors well, but they also reduce the carb content significantly without compromising on taste.
Storage Instructions
Once cooled, this beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-friendly containers. Reheat on the stove or in a microwave until hot.
FAQs
- Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker? Yes, follow the first few steps in a skillet and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours.
- What can I use instead of beef chuck? Short ribs or brisket are great alternatives due to their rich flavor.
- Can I add wine to the stew? Absolutely! A splash of red wine can enhance the stew’s depth, adding an elegant touch to its flavor.
- How can I thicken my stew? Mashing some of the potatoes or adding a slurry of cornstarch and water can help thicken the stew.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this stew? Substitute the beef with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth.
Wrap-Up Invitation: Share the Delight of the Best Beef Stew Recipe
This beef stew is a true testament to the comforting power of slow-cooked meals. Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, it’s bound to become a staple in your household. Try it and share your experience! Did you try any variations? Leave a comment or share this recipe with a friend in need of some culinary inspiration.
Best Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- beef broth
- carrots
- potatoes
- onion
- garlic
- tomato paste
- dried thyme
- bay leaves
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Season beef with salt and pepper and sear in a hot dutch oven until browned.
- Sauté onions and garlic until translucent then stir in tomato paste.
- Return beef, add carrots, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaves to pot. Pour in broth.
- Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 2 hours until the beef is tender.