This Ultimate Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings. With tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich broth with vegetables, it's a family favorite that brings everyone together.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory flavors that warm you from the inside out
- Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- A wholesome dish packed with vegetables
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly or a cozy night in calls, nothing beats a warm bowl of beef stew. This Ultimate Beef Stew recipe encapsulates the essence of comfort food, combining tender beef with hearty vegetables in a rich broth. Each spoonful not only satiates your hunger but also brings a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of family gatherings and home-cooked meals. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel right at home, no matter where you are.
The combination of flavors in this stew is truly remarkable. The slow-simmering process allows the beef to absorb the aromatic herbs and spices, creating a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. As the beef cooks, it releases its juices, which meld beautifully with the broth and vegetables, resulting in a savory sauce that perfectly coats each ingredient. This dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best features of beef stew is its suitability for meal prep. This recipe makes a generous batch, perfect for feeding a crowd or for enjoying over several days. The flavors only deepen and improve after a day in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for leftovers. Simply reheat and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, saving you time on busy weeknights.
By making this stew in advance, you ensure that you have a nutritious and filling meal ready to go. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you have a complete dinner. Plus, the wholesome ingredients in this dish, like carrots and potatoes, provide essential nutrients, making it a smart choice for both your taste buds and your health.
Tips for the Best Beef Stew
For the best results, choose high-quality beef chuck, as it has the right amount of fat and connective tissue that breaks down during cooking, resulting in a tender and flavorful stew. Additionally, don’t rush the searing process; browning the beef properly helps develop a rich flavor base for the stew. Remember, a well-seared piece of meat adds depth and complexity to your dish.
Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables. Adding peas, green beans, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the stew. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique twist. Just remember to keep the cooking times in mind to ensure everything is perfectly tender by the end of the simmering process.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Ingredients
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for extra flavor.
Instructions
Sear the Beef
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
Combine and Simmer
Add the seared beef back to the pot along with the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Ultimate Beef Stew is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with some simple accompaniments. Serve it with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth, or pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the stew.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth during cooking. This enhances the stew's flavor profile and adds a touch of sophistication. Just be sure to let it simmer long enough for the alcohol to cook off, leaving behind only the rich, complex taste.
Storing and Freezing
To store your beef stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
If you want to enjoy this stew for even longer, consider freezing individual portions. Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. This stew can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove for a quick and satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze beef stew?
Yes, beef stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I serve with beef stew?
Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ultimate Beef Stew
Ultimate Beef Stew
Created by: Lucy Thompson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
Add the seared beef back to the pot along with the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 40g