Sure, here’s a detailed recipe for a classic beef stew and mashed potatoes:
### Classic Beef Stew Recipe
#### Ingredients
– **For the beef stew:**
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the beef:**
– In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. **Brown the beef:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
– Add the beef in batches, browning on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. **Cook the vegetables:**
– In the same pot, add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
– Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. **Deglaze the pot:**
– Pour in the red wine (if using) and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
– Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine has reduced by half.
5. **Combine ingredients:**
– Add the browned beef back into the pot along with the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.
– Stir well to combine.
6. **Simmer the stew:**
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
– Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
7. **Add vegetables:**
– Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot.
– Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
8. **Finish the stew:**
– If using, add the frozen peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
– Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
9. **Serve:**
– Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
### Mashed Potatoes Recipe
#### Ingredients
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
– 1/2 cup milk (adjust for desired creaminess)
– 4 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
#### Instructions
1. **Boil the potatoes:**
– Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water.
– Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
– Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. **Drain and mash:**
– Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
– Add the butter and begin mashing the potatoes with a potato masher or fork.
3. **Add milk and mix:**
– Gradually add the milk while continuing to mash until you reach the desired consistency.
– For extra creaminess, you can also add sour cream or cream cheese at this stage.
4. **Season:**
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
5. **Serve:**
– Serve hot alongside the beef stew.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting beef stew with mashed potatoes!
