Few meals feel as cozy and satisfying as a hearty bowl of beef stew. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in the mood for something rich and comforting. With its tender chunks of beef, soft vegetables, and deep, savory flavor, this Beef Stew Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive in and break it down step by step, so you can create the ultimate beef stew without any guesswork.
Why This Beef Stew Recipe Stands Out
Beef stew is one of those timeless recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. What makes it special? Slow cooking lets the beef and vegetables soak up every bit of flavor, while the savory broth ties it all together. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup—a win-win!
What You’ll Need
Before we get started, here’s your shopping list. These ingredients serve 4-6 people and create a stew that’s perfectly balanced in taste and texture.
Ingredients
- Beef chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes): 2 lbs
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup
- Salt: 2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
- Olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Yellow onion (diced): 1 large
- Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
- Carrots (peeled and chopped): 3 medium
- Potatoes (cubed): 3 medium (Yukon Gold or red work best)
- Celery stalks (chopped): 2
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Beef broth: 4 cups
- Red wine (optional, but recommended): 1 cup
- Bay leaves: 2
- Thyme: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Frozen peas: 1 cup (added at the end)
- Parsley (chopped, for garnish): 2 tbsp
Step 1: Prep Like a Pro
Good preparation makes cooking stress-free. Here’s what you need to do before turning on the stove:
- Cube the beef: Cut your chuck roast into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown properly.
- Coat with flour: Toss the beef in a bowl with flour, salt, and pepper. This gives the meat a flavorful crust and helps thicken the stew later.
- Chop vegetables: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and cut carrots, potatoes, and celery into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Gather your spices and liquids: Measure out your tomato paste, broth, wine, and seasonings.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing the beef cubes for about 3-4 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a golden-brown crust. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and paprika for a quick flavor boost, cooking for another minute.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step adds incredible depth to your stew. Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes before moving on.
Step 5: Build the Stew
Return the seared beef to the pot, then add the chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Let It Simmer
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Check on it occasionally, giving it a gentle stir to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is tender enough to fall apart with a fork.
Step 7: Add the Finishing Touch
Stir in the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. Don’t forget to taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
How to Serve Beef Stew
Scoop generous portions of the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Pair it with warm crusty bread or buttered dinner rolls to soak up the rich broth. You could also serve it over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for an extra hearty meal.
Extra Tips to Elevate Your Stew
- Balsamic vinegar: Add a splash for a tangy depth of flavor.
- Dietary swaps: Use gluten-free flour if needed, or replace potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly different taste.
- Make it ahead: Beef stew tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it in advance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This beef stew is a no-fuss classic with a rich, homemade taste that never goes out of style. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Fun fact: variations of beef stew have been enjoyed around the world for centuries, with each culture adding its unique spin. Now, it’s your turn to create your version!
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