Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef Stew
Beef stew is that comforting dish that warms your soul. It’s a classic meal filled with tender beef and hearty vegetables. Perfect for chilly days, it offers a rich flavor that brings everyone together at the dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to make, and it fills your home with delightful aromas.
Cooking Beef Stew Made Simple
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
- Next, throw in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the tomato paste along with the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth, and then add the chopped potatoes and sliced carrots. Bring everything to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 6-8 hours, or until the beef becomes tender.
- Serve hot and enjoy the warmth of your delicious stew!
Serving Up This Comforting Beef Stew
Beef stew is best served warm. You can dish it out in bowls and add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a pop of color. It goes wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Storing Your Delicious Beef Stew
If you have leftovers, store your beef stew in an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Stew
- Use quality beef: Good meat makes all the difference. Opt for chuck or brisket for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Add variety: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like peas or celery for extra color and nutrition.
- Be mindful of seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and spices towards the end of cooking to suit your personal preference.
Delicious Variations
You can easily switch up this recipe by adding different herbs like bay leaves or parsley. For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes. Another variation includes adding red wine for a deeper flavor.
Nutritional Information
(Nutritional values may vary, but here’s a general idea per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
Wholesome Ideas for Family Meals
This beef stew is ideal for family dinners. Serve it with some homemade bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. You can make it a family tradition by enjoying it together every month!
Great Pairing Suggestions
Pair your beef stew with a light, crispy salad or some buttered dinner rolls. A glass of red wine or a light beer can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef in a skillet and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours for tender beef.
2. Is beef stew gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth, this recipe is gluten-free. Check the labels to be sure!
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to blend. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy making your tasty beef stew, and happy cooking!
Hearty Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes Use good quality beef for the best flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth Ensure it's gluten-free if necessary.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the tomato paste along with the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth, and then add the chopped potatoes and sliced carrots. Bring everything to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 6-8 hours, or until the beef becomes tender.
- Serve hot and enjoy the warmth of your delicious stew!
