If you’re craving a warm and hearty dish that’s both a feast and a comfort, our old-fashioned beef stew is the perfect answer. It’s the type of meal that can transform a dreary day into a comforting evening. The rich blend of tender beef chunks, fresh vegetables, and savory broth is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to cozy family dinners of the past.
Ingredients
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Equipments
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- A large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Chef’s knife and cutting board for prep work
- Measuring spoons and cups for accuracy
- Slotted spoon for serving
How to Make Old-Fashioned Beef Stew – Step By Step
Step 1: Preparing the Beef
Start by patting the beef cubes dry with a paper towel to ensure they brown properly. Season them with salt and pepper. In your heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring a golden brown crust forms on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Building the Stew Base
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring for a couple of minutes to form a roux. Slowly add the beef broth while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Adding Vegetables and Beef
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, and additional salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Simmering the Stew
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
Once your stew has reached its peak flavor, serve it hot straight from the pot. A crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up every bit of the savory broth. You can also garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a more complex flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine after sautéing the onions. You can also try including parsnips or peas for extra texture and sweetness.
Pumped Up Protein: High-Protein Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
Want to boost your protein intake? Try adding some lentils during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They not only enhance the protein content but also add a delightful, creamy texture to the stew.
Carb-Conscious Cooking: Low Carb Beef Stew Delight
For a low carb version, substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets, and carrots with turnips. This maintains the heartiness of the stew without the extra carbs, making it a great fit for low-carb eating plans.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly over low heat for best results.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, chicken is a great lighter alternative, though the cooking time might vary.
- How can I thicken my stew? If your stew isn’t thick enough, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir in while simmering.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Just combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Is it possible to make this stew spicy? Yes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chilies for a spicy kick.
Gather Round & Dig In: My Final Thoughts on This Stew
This old-fashioned beef stew is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to the past and a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for family gatherings or solo comforts, it invites you to share, comment, and let others in on your culinary journey. Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of wine or a cozy throw to wrap yourself in warmth.
Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- vegetable oil
- beef broth
- onion
- carrots
- potatoes
- salt
- dried thyme
- pepper
- all-purpose flour
- garlic
Instructions
Steps
- Start by patting the beef cubes dry with a paper towel to ensure they brown properly. Season them with salt and pepper. In your heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring a golden brown crust forms on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring for a couple of minutes to form a roux. Slowly add the beef broth while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, and additional salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.