Here’s a recipe for a comforting, hearty beef stew that’s perfect for cold days and packed with rich flavors:
Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 cup red wine (or additional beef broth)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried rosemary)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef
Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Set aside on a plate. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. - Add Flour
Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. This will help thicken the stew. - Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the red wine (if using) and stir, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the wine reduces by half. - Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the browned beef, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine. - Simmer the Stew
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. - Add Vegetables
Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and mushrooms (if using) to the stew. Cover and cook for an additional 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender. - Adjust Seasoning
Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. - Serve
Remove bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Enjoy your comforting, homemade beef stew!