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RECIPES

Hearty Beef Stew

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Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a hearty beef stew to warm your soul on a cold day.

This classic dish is a comforting blend of tender beef chunks, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth.

Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this one-pot wonder is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

The slow-cooked goodness ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Let’s dive into this timeless recipe and create a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.

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Ingredients

2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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1 large onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

1 lb (450g) baby potatoes or diced potatoes

1 cup mushrooms, halved (optional)

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3 cups beef broth

1 cup red wine (optional, for a deeper flavor)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

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2 bay leaves

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Beef

  1. Season the Beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour to coat.
  2. Sear the Beef: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

  1. Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, sauté the onions for 3 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  2. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Building the Stew

  1. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Mix well.
  2. Add the Beef: Return the seared beef to the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
  3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Adding the Vegetables

  1. Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms to the pot. Continue cooking for another 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables and beef are tender.
  2. Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves and garnish the stew with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

For Extra Flavor: Let the stew rest for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance.

Customize the Vegetables: Add parsnips, turnips, or peas for additional variety.

Conclusion

Hearty beef stew is the epitome of comfort food, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.

Its tender beef, rich broth, and nourishing vegetables make it a go-to dish for cold weather or family gatherings.

Simple to make yet deeply flavorful, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it up and enjoy the comforting embrace of a timeless classic!

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