The aroma of slow-cooked beef stew wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chunks of beef swimming in a rich, savory broth infused with herbs and spices—this is not just food; it’s an experience! Each spoonful promises warmth and comfort that can turn even the gloomiest of days around.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best cut of beef for stew?
- Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
- How do I thicken my beef stew?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, picture this: you’re cozied up at home after a long week, the rain tapping against your window while you dig into a steaming bowl of this delightful dish. You know the feeling when the first bite transports you back to grandma’s kitchen? That’s what we’re aiming for here—nostalgia wrapped in flavors that dance on your taste buds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef stew is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests.
- The flavors develop beautifully as it simmers.
- It’s visually appealing with colorful veggies peeking through the rich broth.
- Best of all, it’s versatile; serve it alone or over mashed potatoes or rice!
I remember the first time I made this beef stew; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. They even nicknamed me “Stew Master” for the night!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: Choose well-marbled cuts for tenderness; they yield juicy results after slow cooking.
- Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots add sweetness and color; cut them into thick rounds to maintain texture.
- Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for creaminess; they hold their shape well during cooking.
- Onions: Sweet onions caramelize beautifully and elevate flavor; chop them finely to release their sweetness.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves impart robust flavor; smash them lightly to release essential oils.
- Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels; homemade adds an extra touch of love!
- Tomato Paste: This ingredient boosts umami and thickens the stew; don’t skip it!
- Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaves): Fresh thyme adds fragrance while bay leaves deepen flavor; remove them before serving.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sear the meat and enhances browning; choose high-quality oil for best results.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings—don’t be shy! Adjust them according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping all your vegetables and measuring out your ingredients. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add cubed beef chuck roast and sear until browned on all sides—around 5-7 minutes should do it.
Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic once the meat is browned. Sauté until onions become translucent and aromatic—about 3 minutes will bring out those flavorful juices.
Add Veggies and Broth: Mix in carrots and potatoes next. Pour in beef broth along with tomato paste while stirring well to combine everything into that comforting pot of goodness.
Add Seasonings: Sprinkle thyme leaves, bay leaves, salt, and pepper into the mix now. Stir again so those flavors can mingle—let it simmer like they’re at a cozy dinner party!
Simmer Away: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let your stew cook gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat becomes fork-tender—trust me; patience pays off!
Enjoy your culinary masterpiece! The end result will leave everyone craving more of this hearty meal that truly embodies comfort food at its finest.
You Must Know
- Beef stew is more than just comfort food; it’s a delicious way to warm your soul.
- The rich aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone feel at home.
- Plus, it’s a forgiving recipe that allows for creativity based on what ingredients you have on hand.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef to lock in flavors, then add vegetables and simmer slowly for tender results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or add your favorite herbs for a unique flavor twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a deeper flavor, sear the beef until caramelized before adding other ingredients.
- Remember to cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of red wine during simmering.
Cooking this beef stew has always brought back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter and delicious aromas mingled harmoniously.
FAQ
What is the best cut of beef for stew?
Chuck roast is ideal due to its rich flavor and tenderness after slow cooking.
Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the meat first for extra flavor before adding everything to the slow cooker.
How do I thicken my beef stew?
For a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew while simmering.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Beef Stew
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
A comforting dish featuring tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered in a savory broth—perfect for warming chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 4 medium carrots
- 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 large sweet onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop vegetables and measure ingredients for smooth cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear cubed beef until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in carrots and potatoes, then pour in the beef broth along with tomato paste.
- Season with thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg