Beef Stew with Mushrooms and Onions

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper, then brown the beef in batches, making sure each side gets a nice golden color. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Mushrooms and Flour: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to coat. This will help thicken the stew.
4. Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and tomato paste, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the Stew: Return the browned beef to the pot, followed by the carrots and potatoes. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Final Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
7. Serve: Ladle the beef stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Enjoy your delicious beef stew with mushrooms and onions!