Old Fashioned Beef Stew

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich savory broth, it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite. This classic dish brings together simple ingredients and time-honored techniques to create a meal that feels both nostalgic and fulfilling. Whether for Sunday dinner or a weeknight treat, this stew is versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef, vegetables, and spices creates a rich taste that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish without stress.
• Family-Friendly: This stew appeals to all ages, making it a great choice for family meals.
• Make Ahead: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies and lean protein, it’s a hearty meal you can feel good about.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Old Fashioned Beef Stew efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering the stew evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and all the right herbs and spices.

For the Beef Stew

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

For the Vegetables

• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 10 ounces pearl onions
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

To Thicken the Stew

• 1/4 cup cold water

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Dust 2 pounds of beef stew meat with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear for about 5 minutes until all sides are browned. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom with your wooden spoon.

Step 5: Combine Vegetables and Seasonings

Add diced potatoes, pearl onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery into the pot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon granulated sugar along with dried basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and ground allspice. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Then reduce heat to low, cover it up tight, and let it simmer for 90 to 120 minutes. Stir occasionally until the beef becomes tender.

Step 7: Thicken the Stew

In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until dissolved. Slowly pour this mixture into the stew while stirring constantly. Cook on low heat for an additional few minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Final Taste Check

Taste your stew and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary. Serve hot on its own or alongside crusty bread for dipping!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Serving Old Fashioned Beef Stew is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making each bowl a complete meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your stew experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the hearty stew perfectly.
• French Baguette: A classic choice, perfect for dipping into the savory broth.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve the beef stew over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and creamy dressing pairs well with the stew’s richness.
• Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds color and brightness to the dish.
• Thyme Leaves: A touch of thyme enhances the herbal notes in the stew.

Accompanied by Pickles

• Dill Pickles: The acidity cuts through the richness of the beef stew nicely.
• Bread and Butter Pickles: For a sweet and tangy option that balances flavors.

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How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew

To achieve a perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew, consider these helpful tips that can enhance texture and flavor.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for chuck roast, as it becomes tender during cooking.
• Sear Meat Well: Browning the beef creates depth in flavor through caramelization.
• Deglaze Properly: Ensure you scrape up all browned bits after searing; they add richness to your broth.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper cautiously to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Slow Cook for Tenderness: Allow enough time for the stew to simmer; this breaks down tough fibers in the meat.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the stew to sit for a bit lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Old Fashioned Beef Stew can create a satisfying meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Buttered Noodles: Simple egg noodles tossed in butter make an excellent base for soaking up the gravy.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add sweetness and color to your plate.
3. Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread complements savory stews deliciously—perfect for sopping up every drop!
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf offers a lighter alternative that balances out the richness of the stew.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add freshness and crunch, creating a lovely contrast in textures.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a crunchy counterpart that brightens each bite of beef stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not browning the beef properly: Failing to sear the beef can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to brown all sides well for depth.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is key! Ensure you season both the meat and the broth for a well-rounded taste.
• Adding vegetables too early: If you add vegetables at the beginning, they may become mushy. Add them midway through cooking for better texture.
• Overcrowding the pot: When there’s too much meat in the pot, it may steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Not allowing enough simmering time: Rushing the cooking process will result in tough meat. Allow ample time for tender beef by simmering low and slow.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts up to 3 months.

Reheating Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Old Fashioned Beef Stew that may help you while preparing this dish.

How can I make my Old Fashioned Beef Stew thicker?

You can thicken your stew by mixing cornstarch with cold water and adding it towards the end of cooking. This will give your stew a nice, hearty consistency.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While beef is traditional, you can substitute pork or chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly as they may require less time to become tender.

What vegetables work well in Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

In addition to potatoes and carrots, consider adding parsnips, turnips, or green beans for added flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this recipe a try and savor the warmth it brings to your table!