Imagine a cozy evening at home, the aroma of a hearty stew simmering on the stove, promising warmth and satisfaction with every bite. That’s exactly what our Ultimate Beef Stew Recipe delivers—a mouthwatering combination of tender beef, savory broth, and rich flavors. Perfect for those chilly nights or simply when you’re in need of some classic comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Make The Ultimate Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown each side for about 4–5 minutes until they’re nicely browned and slightly caramelized. This step is crucial for locking in the flavors. Once browned, transfer the beef to a separate bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Toss in carrots and potatoes, stirring occasionally. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes. This helps to release their natural sweetness, complementing the richness of the beef.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the beef to the pot with the vegetables. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring every piece of meat and veg is coated well. Add thyme and bay leaves, then pour in the beef broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Cover the pot with a lid, allowing the stew to simmer for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and taste-test halfway through to adjust the seasoning if necessary. The meat should be fork-tender, and the flavors melded beautifully into a rich, hearty stew.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the stew is ready, remove the bay leaves. For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes and stir them back in. Serve hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
How to Serve The Ultimate Beef Stew Recipe
Serve the Ultimate Beef Stew in deep bowls to keep its warmth. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a special touch, consider serving it with homemade dumplings or a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a flavor twist, add red wine or Worcestershire sauce while simmering. If you desire a thicker broth, add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Customize your stew by adding green beans or mushrooms for added texture.
Pumping Up Protein: The High-Protein Beef Stew Bonanza
For those looking to increase their protein intake, this high-protein version of the beef stew incorporates lean cuts of beef and additional protein-packed ingredients like lentils or quinoa. These ingredients boost each serving’s protein levels, making your stew even more satisfying without sacrificing flavor.
Including protein-rich vegetables such as spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of simmering is another great way to up the nutritional value and make every bowl full of body-building nutrients.
Low Carb Love: Your Skinny Beef Stew Delight
Looking for a low-carb option? This delicious variation swaps out traditional potatoes with cauliflower florets or even diced turnips for a lighter touch. These alternatives allow you to enjoy the hearty elements of beef stew without the extra carbs.
Use a low-sodium beef stock and pack in fiber-rich vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers to keep this dish not only delicious but also beneficial for your waistline.
Storage Instructions
Your Ultimate Beef Stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan longer storage, let the stew cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat gently to enjoy.
FAQs
- Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? Yes, simply brown the beef and sauté the vegetables before adding everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- How can I thicken the stew? Consider mashing some potatoes in the stew or adding a cornstarch slurry.
- What else can I serve this stew with? Try it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh arugula salad.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
- What kind of wine suits best with this stew? A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the stew well.
Ultimate Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- olive oil
- onion
- carrots
- potatoes
- beef broth
- tomato paste
- thyme
- bay leaves
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and brown the beef cubes in batches.
- Reduce heat to medium, then sauté the onions, carrots, and potatoes for about 5 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pot, add tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves and stir well.
- Pour in the beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot.