Beef Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is packed with flavor and ideal for a cozy dinner. The deep, robust flavors from the beef and vegetables meld together beautifully, making it a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef stew meat (cubed)
olive oil
yellow onion (chopped)
carrots (peeled and chopped)
celery (chopped)
garlic cloves (minced)
beef broth
red wine (optional)
tomato paste
bay leaves
thyme (fresh or dried)
potatoes (peeled and diced)
peas (frozen or fresh)
salt
black pepper

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef stew meat in batches, ensuring each piece is browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon.
4. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the Stew: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Add Potatoes and Peas: Once the beef is tender, add the diced potatoes and peas. Continue to cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through.
7. Serve: Remove the stew from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2-2.5 hours
Total time: 2.5-3 hours

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Spicy Beef Stew: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Slow Cooker Version: Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or round roast. Just make sure to cut the beef into cubes before cooking.

Can I make this stew without wine?
Yes, the stew can be made without wine. You can replace the wine with additional beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a bit of acidity.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, beef stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge.

Can I make this stew in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to cook the beef stew. After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, cook on high pressure for 35-40 minutes, then release the pressure and add the potatoes and peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes if needed.

Conclusion

Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With tender beef, savory broth, and vegetables, this stew is a great meal to warm up with on a cold day. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with some crusty bread, it’s a dish that will leave you feeling full and content.

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