Beef Stew Recipe
Are you in the mood for a hearty and delicious meal that will warm you up from the inside out? Look no further than this mouthwatering Beef Stew Recipe. Packed with tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to enjoy a cozy night in, this beef stew is sure to satisfy your cravings.
A Savory Start
To begin this culinary adventure, we start by preparing the beef. Take 2 pounds of stewing beef and trim off any excess fat. Then, cut the beef into bite-sized cubes. This will ensure that each piece cooks evenly and becomes tender and succulent. In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of flour, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss the beef cubes in the flour mixture, making sure each piece is well coated. This will help to thicken the stew as it cooks and add a delightful crust to the beef.
A Searing Sizzle
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This will create a flavorful base for the stew. Next, add the coated beef cubes to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides. This step is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors in the stew. The sizzling sound and the aroma filling your kitchen will surely make your mouth water.
The Broth of Bliss
Now it’s time to add the liquid components that will transform this dish into a delectable stew. Pour in 6 cups of beef broth, which will provide a savory and robust base for the stew. For an extra depth of flavor, you can also add ½ cup of red wine if desired. The wine will add a subtle richness to the broth and complement the beef perfectly. Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, which will lend a tangy sweetness to the stew. To enhance the aroma and taste, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or add a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Vegetables Galore
No beef stew is complete without a medley of colorful and nutritious vegetables. Add 1 pound of peeled and cubed potatoes, 4 carrots cut into 1-inch pieces, and 4 stalks of celery also cut into 1-inch pieces. These vegetables will not only add vibrant hues to the stew but also provide a delightful crunch and natural sweetness. Let the stew simmer gently for about an hour or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked to perfection. The tantalizing aroma will fill your home, making everyone eagerly anticipate the meal to come.
A Thick and Luscious Finish
To achieve a thick and luscious consistency for your beef stew, create a slurry using 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Mix them together until smooth, then gradually add the slurry to the stew, stirring constantly. This will help to thicken the broth and give it a velvety texture. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can adjust the amount of cornstarch accordingly.
A Pop of Color and Sweetness
To add a burst of color and sweetness, stir in ¾ cup of peas. The vibrant green peas will not only make the stew visually appealing but also provide a burst of freshness to balance the rich flavors. Let the stew simmer for a few more minutes to allow the peas to cook through. This final touch will elevate the overall taste and presentation of your beef stew.
And there you have it, a tantalizing Beef Stew Recipe that will warm your heart and please your taste buds. The combination of tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a savory broth will make this dish a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly winter night or simply craving a comforting meal, this beef stew is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds stewing beef trimmed and cubed
- 3 tablespoons flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 6 cups beef brot
- ½ cup red wine optional
- 1 pound potatoes peeled and cubed
- 4 carrots cut into 1 inch pieces
- 4 stalks celery cut into 1 inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 sprig fresh
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or as needed
- 2 tablespoons water or as needed
- ¾ cup peas
Instructions
- Combine flour, garlic powder and salt & pepper.
- Toss beef in flour mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot.
- Cook the beef and onions until browned.
- Add beef broth and red wine while scraping up any brown bits in the pan.
- Stir in all remaining ingredients except for peas, cornstarch and water.
- Reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer 1 hour or until beef is tender (up to 90 minutes).
- Mix equal parts cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Slowly add the slurry to the boiling stew to reach desired consistency (you may not need all of the slurry, if you’d like a thicker stew, you can add extra).
- Stir in peas and simmer 5-10 minutes before serving . Season with salt & pepper to taste.
Notes
Beef stew meat is often made from the ends of different cuts of beef. If your beef is not tender after 60 minutes, cover and allow to simmer an additional 15-20 minutes or until tender.
