There’s just something about the aroma of beef stew simmering away on a chilly day that fills my heart with warmth and nostalgia. I can vividly remember my grandmother standing over the stove, her trusty cast-iron pot bubbling with chunks of tender meat, vibrant veggies, and a rich broth that spoke of love and comfort. It was a dish that brought our family together, filling our kitchen with laughter and stories shared over steaming bowls. Today, I’m excited to share my version of this classic Beef Stew Recipe with you, so grab your apron and let’s get cooking together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or lazy weekends.
• Budget-friendly, using affordable cuts of beef and seasonal veggies.
• A one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
• Endlessly customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
• Hearty and comforting flavors that warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this delicious Beef Stew. I love to choose fresh, wholesome ingredients for the best flavors!

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic packs more of a punch than powdered!)
• 4 cups beef broth (homemade is even better!)
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas (add at the end for a pop of color and sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to create a delicious memory? Let’s get started with these easy steps:

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot in batches. Brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes. Just imagine that lovely smell starting to fill your kitchen!
3. Combine: Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for about a minute to deepen its flavor. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with the diced potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
4. Add broth: Pour in the beef broth, making sure all the ingredients are covered. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Slow cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This step is crucial! The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef becomes.
6. Finish it off: If you’re adding peas, throw them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Give everything a good stir and taste; add more salt and pepper if needed.

And that’s it! You’ve just made a hearty beef stew that’s bursting with flavor. Remember, if you leave it to simmer longer, the flavors will meld beautifully!

Pro Tips & Variations

Want to jazz things up or cater to specific dietary needs? Here are some fun twists you can consider:

• Spices: Experiment with different herbs—try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for warmth.
• Dining Style: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew at the end. It’ll create a luxurious texture!
• Diet Swaps: For a lighter option, you can use lean cuts of beef or even whole grain alternatives for the potatoes.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to sneak in other veggies like parsnips, mushrooms, or even green beans!

Serving Suggestions

Once your beef stew is ready, it’s time to serve up and enjoy! I love to dish out generous portions into big, rustic bowls. A thick slice of crusty bread on the side makes for the perfect companion to scoop up that rich, flavorful broth. You could also pair it with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon for a bit of freshness. And of course, a glass of red wine can elevate your dining experience, turning a cozy meal into something special.

Storage Tips

You might find that this beef stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator: Let the stew cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Freezer: If you’re making a big batch, freeze the stew in portion-sized containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months! Just make sure to leave a bit of space at the top, as it will expand while freezing.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash more beef broth if it has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use different cuts of beef for this stew?

Absolutely! While chuck is great for its flavor and tenderness, you can also use brisket or round. Just remember, the key is to let it cook low and slow for that melt-in-your-mouth texture!

How can I make this stew vegetarian-friendly?

Of course! Swap the beef for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or even lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll have a fabulous vegetarian stew that’s just as comforting.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, make it easily in either! For a slow cooker, sauté the veggies and beef, then transfer to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. For the Instant Pot, use the sauté function for the beef and veggies, then add broth, seal, and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes, followed by a natural release.

What can I serve with beef stew?

Beyond that crusty bread, you can pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even noodles for a heartier delight. A fresh salad, like a classic Caesar or garden salad, complements it wonderfully as well!

Conclusion

And there you have it! A beautifully hearty Beef Stew that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul. I hope you enjoy making, sharing, and savoring this dish as much as I do. I would love to hear your thoughts—did you try any interesting twists? Or do you have a favorite memory of beef stew from your own kitchen? Please share in the comments below! Happy cooking, my friend!

Mouthwatering Beef Stew Recipe Easy Hearty Comfort Dish

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 140 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Try this easy beef stew recipe for a hearty comfort dish Perfect for cozy nights and satisfying meals Discover the ultimate comfort

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

4 cups beef broth

4 medium carrots, sliced

3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

2 stalks celery, chopped

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 teaspoons dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

Optional: 1 cup frozen peas

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Instructions

Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot in batches. Brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine: Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for about a minute. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with the diced potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.

Add broth: Pour in the beef broth, making sure all the ingredients are covered. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Slow cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Finish it off: If you’re adding peas, throw them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Stir and taste, adding more salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

A hearty beef stew bursting with flavor, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 450 calories
• Sugar: 5 grams
• Fat: 20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams
• Protein: 38 grams

Keywords: beef stew, comfort food, easy recipes, hearty meals