There’s nothing quite like a pot of Old Fashioned Beef Stew simmering on the stove. This timeless recipe is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or meal prep, this stew is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this classic dish that’s been loved for generations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a Bowl: Warm, hearty, and filling, this stew is the ultimate comfort food.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh vegetables, it’s easy to whip up.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (or stock)
- 1 cup red wine (optional, substitute with more broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end)
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons flour mixed with 1/4 cup water (slurry)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
- Working in batches, brown the beef on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure a good sear. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the 1 cup of red wine (or broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Build the Stew
- Add the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Stir to combine.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Cover and simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
- If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the bay leaves and taste the stew, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or over mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Best Beef Stew
- Choose the Right Cut: Beef chuck roast is ideal for stewing because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the stew.
- Low and Slow: Simmer the stew gently to ensure the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
- Customize the Veggies: Add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- With Bread: Serve with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or garlic bread for dipping.
- Over Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the stew over creamy mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal.
- With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the stew.
Why This Recipe Works
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a classic for a reason. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
More Relevant Recipes to Try
If you loved this Old Fashioned Beef Stew, here are some other delicious recipes you might enjoy:
- Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites and Potatoes: A hearty, one-pot meal that’s packed with flavor.
- Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast: A tender and flavorful chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by Mexican street corn.
- Sweet Potato Honey Bun Cake: A decadent and comforting dessert perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a timeless recipe that deserves a spot on your dinner table. With its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So grab your Dutch oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of homemade comfort!