Homemade Beef Stew

Beef stew is a classic comfort dish, perfect for warming up on chilly days. This hearty recipe combines tender beef with a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

• 4 celery stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 6 cups beef broth

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 2 bay leaves

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef:

o In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.

o Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.

o Add the beef to the pot in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

o In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.

o Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.

o Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Incorporate Vegetables:

o Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes, cooking for about 5 minutes.

4. Thicken the Base:

o Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring to coat evenly.

o Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

5. Combine Ingredients:

o Return the seared beef to the pot.

o Add the beef broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves.

o Stir to combine all ingredients.

6. Simmer:

o Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

o Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.

7. Season and Serve:

o Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

o Remove bay leaves before serving.

o Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Additional Tips:

• Meat Selection: Opt for beef chuck as it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

• Flavor Enhancement: For added depth, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of red wine after searing the beef.

• Consistency: If a thicker stew is desired, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Enjoy your homemade beef stew!

Jenna Denise Site
Homemade Beef Stew