This Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional stew by serving it in a warm, edible bowl made from freshly baked bread. Rich with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this dish is a perfect winter comfort food. Not only does it provide a delicious and filling meal, but the bread bowl adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making it a true standout. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this beef stew in a bread bowl will surely be a hit.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 large bread bowls (sourdough or any sturdy bread)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. This step will give the stew a deeper flavor, so take your time.
- Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This will intensify the flavor of the stew.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), stirring to combine. Use a spatula to scrape up any bits of beef or vegetables stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the stew has thickened to your liking.
- While the stew is simmering, prepare the bread bowls. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a circle in the top of each bread bowl, then scoop out the center to create a hollow. Be sure to leave a thick enough wall so the stew doesn’t leak out.
- Once the stew is ready, taste it and adjust seasoning as necessary. Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
- Ladle the hot beef stew into the prepared bread bowls, ensuring each one is generously filled with the stew and vegetables.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
- Enjoy the comforting combination of rich beef stew and the savory bread bowl that soaks up all the delicious flavors!