When the chill of autumn settles in or winter’s bite makes itself known, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a hearty bowl of beef stew. This classic dish is the ultimate in cozy cuisine, combining tender chunks of beef with a medley of vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet evening at home, this beef stew is not only easy to prepare but also allows for the deep, complex flavors to develop over time.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add half of the beef to the pot in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef and repeat with the remaining cubes.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
- Deglaze: If using red wine, pour it into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot, then stir in the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
- Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until thickened.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf, ladle the stew into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal!
Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider browning some mushrooms along with the beef.
- This stew can be made ahead of time; the flavors will deepen as it sits. It also freezes well!
Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy a bowl of this hearty beef stew—it’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day!
