A Classic Beef Stew Recipe: Comfort in Every Bite
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty bowl of beef stew. Whether you’re gathered around the dinner table with family or simply craving a satisfying meal on a cold evening, this timeless dish never disappoints. Packed with tender beef, rich vegetables, and a flavorful broth, a classic beef stew is the ultimate definition of comfort food. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that brings the warmth and deliciousness of home-cooked goodness to your kitchen!
Why Beef Stew is the Ultimate Comfort Food
Beef stew is one of those dishes that combines simplicity with deep, complex flavors. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich, savory broth that perfectly complements the melt-in-your-mouth beef. It’s one of those meals that seems to taste even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or leftovers.
Plus, it’s so versatile! You can adjust the ingredients based on what’s in season or your own personal preferences. Whether you prefer extra root vegetables, like turnips or parsnips, or want to add a dash of red wine for depth, the possibilities are endless.
Classic Beef Stew
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Ingredients
2 pounds beef stew meat
3 tablespoons of olive oil (or cooking oil of choice)
1 cup of red wine (optional)
4 cups of beef broth
2 tablespoons of flour (optional for thickening)
1 yellow onion, diced
1 shallot, diced
4 ounces of minced garlic
10 carrots, chopped into small pieces
6 stalks of celery, chopped into small pieces
1 pound of small red potatoes, halved (or add as whole if small)
several sprigs of fresh thyme
several sprigs of fresh rosemary
3 dried bay leaves
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or cooking oil of choice) in a large pot or Dutch oven on medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the beef in batches (to avoid overcrowding), and brown on all sides. Once browned, remove from heat and set aside.
In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or cooking oil of choice), the diced yellow onion and shallots, and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
Add the red wine (optional, but recommended to elevate the flavor). Use a wooden spoon to mix, scraping up any brown bits.
Return the beef to the pot along with the carrots, celery, potatoes, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, bay leaves, and beef broth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce to a low heat, and let cook for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally.
To achieve a thicker consistency, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour with a little water, then stir it into the stew. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the stew to thicken.
Once the beef is tender and the broth has richened, remove the bay leaves and herb sprigs. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
A classic beef stew is more than just a meal; it’s an experience—one that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a cold night or a dish to feed a crowd, this hearty recipe is sure to satisfy. The beauty of beef stew is its ability to bring comfort and warmth, no matter the occasion.
So, next time you’re in the mood for something warm, filling, and delicious, grab some beef, vegetables, and a pot, and get cooking. You’ll be rewarded with a comforting bowl of stew that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
If you are looking for premium cuts of beef for your creation, check out Snake River Farms.
Enjoy!
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