Beef Stew: A Cozy Story of Comfort in a Bowl
As the leaves begin to turn golden and the air carries a crisp bite, I find myself drawn to warm, hearty meals that wrap me like a cozy blanket. There’s something magical about the aroma of simmering beef stew wafting through the house, beckoning loved ones to gather around the dinner table. This delightful Beef Stew recipe, filled with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich broth, feels like the embrace of a cherished memory, reminding me of family gatherings and the comfort of home. Perfect for those easy weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying yet simple, this recipe will quickly become one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A comforting, hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings.
- Tender beef that melds with the aromatic veggies for a dreamy flavor.
- Simple to prepare, making it an easy weeknight dinner option.
- Great for meal prep—you can make it ahead and simply reheat!
- Budget-friendly, using everyday ingredients you probably already have.
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make Beef Stew
Let’s Make It Together:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer with promise.
- Add the beef and brown each piece on all sides; this step brings out the deep, savory flavors.
- Stir in the onions and garlic, cooking until softened—your kitchen will soon be filled with inviting aromas!
- Incorporate the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper, creating a nourishing symphony of ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful the beef becomes.
- Adjust seasoning as needed to suit your palate. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and let the warmth envelop you.
Variations & Creative Twists
Delicious Variations to Try:
While this classic beef stew is delightful as is, here are a few creative twists to take it to the next level:
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for a rich umami kick that deepens the flavor.
- Toss in a handful of fresh green beans or peas for a burst of color and crunch.
- For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
- Experiment with spices—try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of red pepper flakes for warmth and depth.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Tips for Perfect Results:
- Make it ahead: This stew actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces: This ensures they cook evenly and enhances the overall presentation of the dish.
- If you like a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot about 10 minutes before serving.
- Freeze leftovers: This stew freezes beautifully! Just store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Information per Serving
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown:
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 550mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Reader FAQs About Beef Stew:
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day.
Can I use different ingredients?
Certainly! Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or use different cuts of beef.
How do I store leftovers?
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
How long does it last?
When frozen, it can last up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it properly in freezer-safe containers.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Stew recipe is not just a meal—it’s an experience, a hug in a bowl that brings comfort and warmth with every bite. The tender beef, vibrant veggies, and savory broth create a symphony of flavors that promise to delight your taste buds and soothe your soul. Remember to save this Beef Stew to your cozy dinners board, so it’s ready when you need a delicious treat on a chilly evening! Happy cooking!
Print
Beef Stew
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A cozy and hearty beef stew filled with tender meat and vibrant vegetables, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef and brown each piece on all sides.
- Stir in the onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Incorporate the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 90 to 120 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
This stew tastes better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep. Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: beef stew, comfort food, hearty meals