Stewed Beef

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches, browning it on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir in the carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Remove the bay leaf before serving, and adjust the seasoning to taste.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your delicious stewed beef!