Introduction:
This Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew is the perfect comfort food for a cozy day. Rich with tender beef, a variety of vegetables, and a savory broth, this stew is packed with flavor and nourishment. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s great for feeding a family or preparing in advance for a weeknight dinner. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, making it an ideal dish for cold weather or whenever you’re craving a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
2 lbs beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes)
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
3 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
3 potatoes (peeled and diced)
1 cup celery (chopped)
1 cup frozen peas
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the beef and set it aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir to combine.
Simmer the Stew: Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Add the thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Cook: Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Thicken the Stew (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little water to form a slurry. Slowly stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the stew thickens.
Add Peas: About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Remove the bay leaves and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Description:
This stew is a perfect balance of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth. The meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking, while the vegetables add texture and a natural sweetness. The depth of flavor from the herbs and the richness of the beef broth make this stew irresistible. It’s an all-in-one meal that will leave you satisfied and warm.
Tips:
For extra depth of flavor, brown the beef in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or it will steam instead of sear.
If you have time, make this stew a day ahead—like many stews, it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to develop.
You can substitute other vegetables like parsnips, rutabaga, or turnips depending on what you have on hand.
For a richer stew, consider adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce during the simmering process.
If you prefer a more vibrant broth, consider adding a small amount of tomato paste or diced tomatoes.
Variations:
Slow Cooker Version: After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the broth, vegetables, and spices, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the beef and use vegetable broth as a base. Add a variety of root vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, and turnips for a filling, meat-free alternative.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the stew for a little heat.
Corrections:
If the stew is too salty, add a small amount of water or low-sodium broth to balance out the flavors.
Ensure you are using stew meat that has enough fat content to become tender during the long cooking time. Lean cuts may result in a tougher stew.
If you feel the stew is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy:
Now that your Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew is ready, serve it with a warm piece of bread or a side salad for a well-rounded meal. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, offering warmth, comfort, and a satisfying taste of home!