Beef Stew

This beef stew recipe is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With tender chunks of beef, vibrant carrots, and hearty potatoes simmered in a rich red wine sauce, this dish is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this beef stew will surely satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This beef stew offers warmth and satisfaction, making it the ultimate comfort food.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of red wine and herbs creates a deep, complex flavor that elevates the dish.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients on hand, making it easy to whip up anytime.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a family dinner or for entertaining guests, this stew fits any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It reheats beautifully, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your beef stew, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even heat distribution when simmering the stew.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables easy and safe, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Tongs: Ideal for turning meat while browning without breaking the pieces apart.

Ingredients

This beef stew recipe is cozy, hearty, and filling with tender beef, carrots, and potatoes simmered in a rich and flavorful red wine sauce.

Beef & Base Ingredients

• 2 pounds cubed beef chuck or beef stewing meat (see note)
• Flour (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil + more as needed (divided)

Vegetables & Flavorings

• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (see note)

Liquids & Seasoning

• 1 cup dry red wine
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 bay leaves

Starchy Additions

• 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled & diced)
• 4 medium carrots (peeled & sliced fairly thick)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Final Touches

• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Beef Stew

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients. I recommend peeling and cutting the potatoes and carrots just prior to step 8 to keep them fresh.

Step 2: Dredge the Beef

Coat the beef cubes in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps create a nice crust during searing.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot:
1. Sear the beef in two batches until nicely browned. Avoid overcrowding the pot for optimal browning.
2. Use tongs to turn the meat after a few minutes.
3. After each batch, transfer the meat to a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

If the pot seems dry after browning:
1. Add another teaspoon of olive oil.
2. Add chopped onions and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook while stirring often for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Incorporate Liquids

Pour in red wine, broth, and Worcestershire sauce:
1. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot; these add flavor!

Step 7: Simmer with Herbs

Return seared beef to the pot along with any juices from the plate:
1. Add Italian seasoning and bay leaves.
2. Bring to a gentle boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Add Potatoes and Carrots

After an hour:
1. Stir in diced potatoes and sliced carrots.
2. Cover again; continue simmering for another hour or until everything is tender.
3. Adjust heat as necessary during cooking.

Step 9: Finish with Peas

Remove bay leaves from the stew:
1. Stir in frozen peas; allow them to warm through before serving.

Step 10: Season and Serve

Taste your stew:
1. Season with salt and pepper as needed before serving warm in bowls.

Enjoy this delicious homemade beef stew that promises comfort all around!

How to Serve Beef Stew

Serving beef stew can be a delightful experience. This hearty dish pairs well with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors and textures.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful twist, offering a crunchy contrast to the tender meat and veggies.

Over Rice or Noodles

• Steamed Rice: A simple side that absorbs the stew’s savory juices.
• Egg Noodles: Their soft texture complements the beef stew beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves: Enhances the earthy flavors of the stew with its aromatic qualities.

Served in Bowls

• Individual Bowls: Presenting beef stew in individual bowls makes for an elegant serving option.
• Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve your stew in edible bread bowls for added flavor.

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How to Perfect Beef Stew

Perfecting your beef stew is about technique and timing. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Sear the Meat Properly: Browning the beef cubes helps develop deep, rich flavors.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality beef make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Control the Temperature: Keep the heat low enough to simmer gently, allowing flavors to meld without scorching.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go and add salt, pepper, or herbs incrementally for balanced flavor.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the stew to sit after cooking helps flavors deepen even further before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your beef stew can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting side that complements the hearty stew.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances well with the rich flavors of beef stew.
3. Side Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the stew.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast and is perfect for dipping into the stew.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp green beans add color and freshness, enhancing your plate.
6. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf adds an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with beef stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making beef stew, there are a few common pitfalls that can alter the texture and flavor of your dish. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping the browning step – Failing to properly sear the beef can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always brown the meat in batches for the best results.
• Not using enough seasoning – Beef stew needs seasoning to bring out its flavors. Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs; adjust seasonings throughout cooking.
• Overcrowding the pot – Putting too much meat or vegetables at once can steam them rather than brown them. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Cooking at too high a temperature – A rapid boil can make your meat tough. Always simmer on low heat for a tender texture.
• Neglecting to taste as you go – Flavors develop during cooking, so it’s vital to taste your stew periodically and adjust as needed before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Beef stew will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Beef Stew

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Beef stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Stew

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered until hot.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of meat for beef stew?

The best cuts for beef stew are chuck roast or stewing beef due to their marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I make beef stew without wine?

Yes, you can substitute wine with extra beef broth or use grape juice for similar flavor without alcohol.

How do I thicken my beef stew?

To thicken beef stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering stew until it reaches the desired thickness.

Is it better to make beef stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! Beef stew tastes even better when made ahead as the flavors have time to meld together.

Can I customize my beef stew ingredients?

Yes! Feel free to add different vegetables like mushrooms or parsnips, or switch up seasonings based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This beef stew recipe is not only cozy and hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly night or looking for a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!