There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of steaming, hearty beef stew. With its tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich, savory broth, this old fashioned beef stew recipe is perfect for those chilly nights when you need a little warmth and nourishment. Let’s dive into this timeless classic that has been loved through generations.
Ingredients
1. 2 lbs of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2. 3 tablespoons of olive oil
3. Salt and pepper to taste
4. 1 large onion, chopped
5. 2 cloves of garlic, minced
6. 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
7. 4 cups of beef broth
8. 1 cup of red wine (optional)
9. 2 cups of potatoes, peeled and diced
10. 2 cups of carrots, sliced
11. 2 stalks of celery, sliced
12. 1 bay leaf
13. 1 teaspoon of thyme
14. 1 cup of peas (fresh or frozen)
15. 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
Equipments
You will need a large pot or Dutch oven, a wooden spoon, a sharp knife, a chopping board, and a ladle.
How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Preparing the Beef
Start by patting the beef chunks dry with a paper towel, which helps them brown nicely. Season the beef with salt and pepper. In your pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, being careful not to crowd the pot. Sear each side until brown, and then set aside the browned meat on a plate. This step locks in the flavors and is essential for a deep, rich stew.
Step 2: Cooking the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and in the same pot, add the chopped onions. Sauté until they become translucent before adding the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another couple of minutes, allowing its richness to develop and concentrate.
Step 3: Building the Broth
Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—those bits are pure flavor!
Step 4: Adding Vegetables and Spices
Once the pot is boiling, add in the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir everything together and then cover the pot, lowering the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked but not mushy.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the stew has simmered, add in the peas. If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and continue to simmer until the stew reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
Serve this classic stew on individual plates or in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To enhance the flavor, consider using beef stock instead of broth. You may also experiment with different herbs such as rosemary for an aromatic twist. Slow-cooking time is key for tender beef, so don’t rush it!
High Protein Version of the Recipe
For those in need of extra protein, double the beef and add cubed firm tofu. This will not only increase the protein content but also add a unique texture to the stew. Consider adding mushrooms, which naturally complement both beef and tofu.
Low-Carb Delight: A Guilt-Free Beef Stew
Switch diced potatoes for cauliflower florets to keep the carbs down while retaining the stew’s hearty character. Use kale or spinach instead of peas for additional nutrition. This version provides all the warm comfort without the carbohydrates, making it ideal for keto diets.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in appropriate containers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
FAQs
- Can I make beef stew in advance? Yes, beef stew often tastes better the next day. Prepare it ahead of time and reheat it gently.
- What can I add to enhance the flavor? Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can give the stew an extra depth of flavor.
- How do I make my stew thicker? You can thicken the stew with a cornstarch slurry or mashed potatoes.
- Can I substitute beef with another protein? Sure! Try using lamb or chicken—both make delicious variations.
- Can I use a slow cooker? Absolutely. Simply transfer everything into a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
A Final Note on the Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
This old fashioned beef stew recipe takes time, but the reward is a deeply satisfying meal rich in flavor and tradition. Whether shared at family gatherings or enjoyed solo for a weeknight dinner, it’s simply irresistible. If you’ve given it a try, feel free to share your experience and any tweaks you made in the comments below! Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe for your next cozy night in.
The Best Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
- large onion
- garlic
- tomato paste
- beef broth
- red wine
- potatoes
- carrots
- stalks celery
- bay leaf
- thyme
- peas
- cornstarch
Instructions
Steps
- Pat beef dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in pot over medium-high heat and brown beef in batches, then set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add onions and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- Return beef to the pot, add beef broth and wine. Bring to a boil, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
- Add potatoes, carrots, celery, bay leaf, and thyme. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until beef is tender.
- Add peas and optional cornstarch mixture. Simmer until thickened. Adjust seasoning before serving.