If there’s one dish that epitomizes comfort food, it’s the old-fashioned beef stew. There’s something truly special about a simmering pot of tender beef chunks, hearty vegetables, and rich broth mingling on the stove. This classic recipe is beloved for good reason: it’s both simple and deeply satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Let’s dive into crafting this time-honored meal!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tsp thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Large Dutch oven or stockpot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Ladle
How to Make Heartwarming Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools. Carefully chop the carrots, potatoes, and onions into desired pieces. Mince the garlic cloves thoroughly. It’s important to get all of these tasks out of the way first to ensure smooth cooking. Once prepared, set your vegetables aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in the large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks, searing them in batches to avoid overcrowding. This allows the meat to get a nice brown crust, which adds depth to the stew’s flavors. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a bit more oil if necessary, and toss in the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, then add the sliced carrots and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the vegetables in the delicious brown bits left by the beef.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Add tomato paste to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up all the flavorful bits from the bottom. Allow the mixture to slightly reduce, enhancing the stew’s depth and richness.
Step 5: Simmer All Together
Return the seared beef to the pot, pouring in the beef broth until everything is submerged. Stir in the thyme, bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become tender.
How to Serve Heartwarming Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
Once your stew is ready, serve it hot in bowls with some crusty bread on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This dish is ideally enjoyed by the fireplace, with loved ones gathered around.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For added texture, try adding a handful of pearl barley during the last hour of cooking. It not only thickens the stew but also adds a nutty flavor profile. Consider experimenting with other root vegetables like parsnips or rutabaga for an interesting twist. Remember, the key to a perfect stew is patience, so let it simmer until the beef is fork-tender!
High-Protein Twist: Beef Stew with Lentils
If you’re looking to boost the protein content of your stew, consider adding lentils to your recipe. Swap out some of the potatoes for a cup of green or brown lentils. Not only will this version be heartier, but it also provides an excellent source of plant-based proteins.
Additionally, you can incorporate chickpeas or kidney beans as an alternative protein source. These tweaks maintain the essence of a traditional beef stew while amping up its nutritional profile. Remember to adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure the legumes soften perfectly.
Low Carb Makeover: Keto-Friendly Beef Stew
For those on a low-carb diet, you can adapt this recipe by omitting the potatoes and substituting them with diced turnips or radishes. In place of carrots, zucchini and bell peppers can be used for their lower carbohydrate content while still providing a satisfying crunch and volume.
Using a beef bone broth instead of standard beef broth can also enhance the nutritional value without compromising the flavor. This version of the stew is perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing any of the comforting flavors of the original.
Storage Instructions
Leftover stew can be stored in airtight containers and refrigerated for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. When reheating, slowly warm it up on the stove for the best texture and flavor retention.
FAQs
- Can I use a slow cooker for this stew?
Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. - Do I need to use red wine?
While red wine adds depth, it isn’t mandatory. You can replace it with additional beef broth or a dash of balsamic vinegar for a similar effect. - How do I thicken my beef stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the stew in the last 20 minutes of simmering. - Can I add mushrooms to this recipe?
Certainly! Adding mushrooms provides a robust umami flavor that complements the beef nicely. Sauté them with the onions for the best result. - Does this stew require any special seasoning?
The blend of thyme and bay leaves is traditional, but feel free to experiment with rosemary or add Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Delight in Every Spoonful: Final Thoughts on This Beef Stew
Creating the perfect old-fashioned beef stew is like bringing a slice of culinary warmth into your home. With its aromatic herbs, tender beef, and harmonious blend of vegetables, it transports you to a simpler time. Share this recipe with family and friends, and let it become a cherished part of your culinary journey. Feel free to leave comments, share your cooking escapades, or suggest other variations below. Enjoy every spoonful!
Heartwarming Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- olive oil
- carrots
- potatoes
- onions
- garlic
- tomato paste
- beef broth
- red wine
- thyme
- bay leaves
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools. Carefully chop the carrots, potatoes, and onions into desired pieces. Mince the garlic cloves thoroughly. Set everything aside for smooth cooking.
- Heat olive oil in the large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks, searing them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add a bit more oil if necessary, and toss in the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent, then add carrots and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add tomato paste to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up all the flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Return the seared beef to the pot, adding the beef broth until everything is submerged. Stir in thyme, bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours.