Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew – A Hearty, Flavorful, and Comforting Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew. This dish is a timeless favorite, perfect for warming up on chilly days or simply enjoying a hearty and nutritious meal. The combination of tender beef, rich broth, and perfectly cooked vegetables creates a satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, meal prepping, or entertaining guests, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

In this guide, we’ll take you through every step of preparing the perfect Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew, from choosing the best ingredients to slow-cooking techniques that bring out the richest flavors. You’ll also find helpful tips, frequently asked questions, and serving suggestions to ensure your stew turns out flawless every time.

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves

For the Vegetables:

• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup green beans, chopped

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss beef cubes with salt, black pepper, and flour until evenly coated.
3. Add beef to the pot in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

4. In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
6. Deglaze the pot by pouring in red wine (or extra broth), scraping up browned bits from the bottom.

Step 3: Simmer the Stew

7. Add back the seared beef along with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

9. Add carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Cover and simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
10. Stir in green beans and peas and cook for another 10 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

11. Remove bay leaves and discard. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Tips for the Best Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew

• Use the right cut of beef – Beef chuck is ideal as it becomes tender when slow-cooked.
• Sear the beef well – This enhances flavor and helps lock in juices.
• Let it simmer low and slow – Cooking on low heat for an extended period ensures tender beef and deep flavor.
• Adjust seasoning as needed – Taste test before serving and adjust accordingly.
• Thicken the broth – If you want a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my beef stew even more flavorful?

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce to the broth. Also, letting the stew sit overnight and reheating it enhances the taste.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What’s the best way to store and reheat beef stew?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

Can I substitute any vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, parsnips, or bell peppers for variety.

Is it necessary to use red wine?

No, you can substitute with extra beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

Conclusion

This Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s rich, hearty, and full of delicious flavors that will leave everyone satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this stew is guaranteed to be a hit.

With tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and a deeply flavored broth, this dish is a must-try for any home cook. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying!

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