This savory homemade beef stew is the epitome of comfort food. Brimming with tender chunks of beef, earthy root vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this dish offers a soul-warming experience perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings. Slowly simmered to perfection, every spoonful is filled with rich flavors, making it the ultimate go-to recipe for a cozy, hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, for deeper flavor)
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup peas (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter (optional, for richer texture)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Build the stew base: Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Return the seared beef to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer: Cover and let the stew simmer on low for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.
- Add the vegetables: Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Cook for another 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Thicken the stew: In a small bowl, mix flour with softened butter to create a paste. Stir this mixture into the stew to thicken it. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the stew reaches your desired consistency.
- Final touch: Add the peas (if using) in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Enjoy your delicious, savory beef stew!