When it comes to comforting meals, nothing quite matches the heartiness of a beef stew simmering on the stove. This recipe offers a delightful combination of tender beef and vibrant vegetables, making it a satisfying choice for family dinners or chilly evenings.
Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of beef stew, where the flavors of seared meat meld beautifully with fragrant herbs and fresh vegetables. It’s not just food; it’s a warm embrace that fills your kitchen with a sense of homeliness.
This stew is perfect for those who enjoy a dish that balances robust flavors with a tender texture, thanks to the slow cooking process. Each bite reveals the care and love poured into this classic dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To craft a satisfying beef stew, gather the essential ingredients that will create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Start with a couple of pounds of beef chuck, cut into bite-sized chunks.
You’ll also need fresh seasonal vegetables, specifically carrots and potatoes, which not only enhance the dish’s heartiness but also add vibrant colors. Aromatics such as onion and garlic will provide a fragrant foundation for the stew.
Don’t forget the broth! A rich beef broth will serve as the base, bringing depth to the dish. Finally, seasonings like tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and a bay leaf will tie all the elements together beautifully.
The Stewing Process
The process of stewing is where the magic happens. Begin by browning the beef chunks in a pot with olive oil over medium-high heat. This step is crucial as it adds a layer of flavor to the meat, which will deepen during the cooking process.
Once the beef is well-seared, remove it from the pot to sauté the onion and garlic until they become translucent. This creates a fragrant base that complements the beef perfectly.
Next, combine the browned beef back into the pot with your colorful vegetables, broth, and seasonings. This mixture will soon transform into a delightful, rich stew as it simmers.
Simmering to Perfection
After combining all ingredients, it’s time to let them simmer. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover it. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Let it simmer for about one and a half to two hours. During this time, the beef will become tender, and the vegetables will absorb the savory broth, resulting in a dish that’s full of flavor.
Check occasionally, stirring gently to ensure that nothing sticks to the bottom. The aroma wafting from the pot will be an enticing reminder of what’s to come.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your hearty beef stew, presentation plays an important role. Ladle the stew into deep bowls, making sure each serving is generously filled with both beef and vegetables.
For an added touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, which not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of freshness to the dish.
Pair your stew with a slice of crusty bread on the side. This will invite everyone to dip and savor every last drop of the rich broth, making the meal even more enjoyable.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Should you find yourself with leftovers, storing them is simple. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions in resealable bags or containers, which can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove until warmed through.
The flavors will continue to develop, often tasting even better after a day or two, making it an ideal dish for meal prep!
Nutrition Information
This beef stew is not just delicious but also nourishing. Each serving offers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome choice for a main course.
On average, a serving contains around 350 calories, with approximately 30 grams of protein to keep you feeling satisfied. The inclusion of vegetables adds essential nutrients and fiber to your meal.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones, this stew is sure to provide comfort and warmth, both in taste and nutrition.
Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew Recipe
This savory beef and vegetable stew is a classic comfort dish featuring succulent chunks of beef, seasonal vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a robust flavor profile.
The stew is thick and hearty, with tender meat that practically melts in your mouth, complemented by the soft, flavorful vegetables. It’s a true representation of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, bay leaf, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.
- Serve: Remove bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or over rice.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g