There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of hearty, old fashioned beef stew. This classic dish warms not just the body, but the soul, and is perfect for a chillier evening when you’re craving something homey. Packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a broth that brings it all together, this stew is both satisfying and delicious. In this guide, we will walk you through an elaborate, step-by-step recipe to create this masterpiece at home. So, let’s dive into the world of simmering goodness!
Ingredients
For a beef stew that bursts with flavor and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, you’ll need:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 large carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Equipments
You will need the following equipment to make this stew:
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
How to Make The Ultimate Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Begin by browning the beef. Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear each side until brown, which typically takes about 5–7 minutes.
This is crucial for developing flavor, as the searing creates a rich, deep color and caramelization.
Step 2: Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. These aromatics will add a foundational flavor to the stew, working in tandem with the beef fond (browned bits) for added depth.
Step 3: Stir in tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to dissolve and mingle with the other ingredients. This step enhances the stew’s body, providing a rich, umami undertone to the broth.
Step 4: Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 1.5 hours, allowing the beef to tenderize and absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth. Cover and continue to simmer for another 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. This phase ensures the vegetables are cooked perfectly, maintaining their integrity while soaking up the stew’s delicious essence.
Step 6: Before serving, remove the bay leaf and taste the stew. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve The Ultimate Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
Serve this old fashioned beef stew with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice. The savory broth combined with melt-in-your-mouth beef and vegetables makes it a nourishing, complete meal. Pair it with a robust red wine or a refreshing iced tea for an enhanced dining experience.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For optimal results, choose beef chuck since its marbling creates a tender and flavorful stew. Brown the beef in batches to prevent steaming and ensure a good crust formation. You can also add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms during the last 10 minutes of cooking for variety. A splash of red wine during the broth step can add complexity to the stew’s flavor.
High Protein Hacks: Transforming Your Classic Stew
Elevate your beef stew by boosting its protein content! Swap some of the standard potatoes and carrots with protein-rich alternatives like lentils or chickpeas. These ingredients not only enhance texture but also increase the nutritional value. You can also add quinoa or barley for a heartier version.
Consider replacing traditional beef broth with a more concentrated bone broth to add more protein and richer flavor. This high-protein swap is perfect for fitness enthusiasts looking to maintain their muscle-building diet without sacrificing taste.
Low Carb Transformation: A Keto-Friendly Beef Stew
If you’re on a low-carb journey, a few tweaks will tailor this hearty recipe to meet your dietary goals. Replace potatoes with turnips or cauliflower, which mimic their texture without the carbs. You can also swap carrots for celery and add pearl onions or leeks for variety and flavor.
For the broth, ensure you use a keto-friendly beef stock. In addition, consider thickening your stew with xanthan gum or almond flour instead of traditional flour. These small changes guarantee that carb counters don’t miss out on the nourishing delight of this classic stew.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extended storage, freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat to maintain the texture and flavor.
FAQs
- Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the beef and sauté onions and garlic on the stovetop before transferring everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
- Is it possible to use another type of meat? Certainly! Lamb or pork can be used as alternatives, but adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they are tender.
- How can I make this stew gluten-free? The recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your beef broth, if store-bought, is labeled gluten-free.
- What is the best type of potato to use? Russet potatoes are great for stew due to their starchy nature, but Yukon Golds are reliable and hold their shape well.
- Can I add wine to my stew? Absolutely. Add a 1/2 cup of red wine while incorporating the broth. It enhances the stew’s depth and flavor.
Wrap-up: Share Your Stew Story!
Creating an old fashioned beef stew is a delightful culinary journey that fills both your home and heart with warmth. We hope you’ve enjoyed the process of bringing this beloved dish to life. After relishing in its rich comforts, we’d love to hear your experience. Please feel free to share your own twists in the comments below or inspire your friends and family by sharing this recipe. Bon appétit!
Ultimate Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- vegetable oil
- chopped onions
- garlic
- beef broth
- tomato paste
- dried thyme
- bay
- large carrots
- large potatoes
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Begin by browning the beef. Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear each side until brown, which typically takes about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to dissolve and mingle with the other ingredients.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 1.5 hours.
- Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot, ensuring they're submerged in the broth. Cover and continue to simmer for another 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Before serving, remove the bay leaf and taste the stew. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.