There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of beef stew simmering on the stove. With tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, classic beef stew is the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is sure to warm you up from the inside out. If you’re craving a meal that feels like a big, comforting hug, this classic beef stew recipe will do just that.
What Is Classic Beef Stew?
Beef stew is a traditional dish made by slowly simmering beef in a rich, savory broth along with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. The meat becomes tender, and the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a delicious, hearty meal that’s satisfying and full of depth. Though recipes vary by region, classic beef stew typically uses tougher cuts of beef, which are perfect for braising and slow cooking.
The beauty of beef stew lies in its versatility. You can add different vegetables, herbs, and spices based on your preferences. What remains constant is the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef and the comforting broth that soaks into every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this hearty beef stew recipe, you’ll need:
For the Beef Stew:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 cup red wine (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Classic Beef Stew
Step 1: Brown the Beef
To start, heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring that the pieces don’t overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This caramelization process adds rich flavor to the stew. After the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. The onions and garlic will release their sweet aroma and provide a flavorful base for the stew.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
To add even more flavor, pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the broth. Let the wine cook off for about 2-3 minutes before adding the other liquids.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings
Once the wine has cooked down, add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything together, ensuring the tomato paste is fully incorporated into the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 5: Simmer the Beef
Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Stir to combine and bring the stew back to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, and let the stew cook for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 6: Add the Vegetables
Once the beef is tender, add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. At this point, you can also add frozen peas, if using, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour or cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Slowly stir this mixture into the stew and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 8: Final Seasoning
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. Remove the bay leaves and discard them. The stew is now ready to serve!
Why Make Beef Stew at Home?
Beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, and making it at home allows you to enjoy it at its very best. The long, slow cooking process infuses the beef and vegetables with deep, rich flavor. Plus, homemade beef stew gives you control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose the freshest vegetables, high-quality beef, and your preferred seasonings.
Another advantage of making beef stew from scratch is that it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. It’s also a great dish to make in advance. In fact, the flavors only improve after sitting for a day or two, making it a perfect option for meal prep or leftovers.
Tips for Perfect Beef Stew
- Choose the right cut of beef: Beef chuck is the best choice for stew because it’s flavorful and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- Brown the beef properly: Searing the beef before simmering helps develop deep, rich flavors. Don’t skip this step!
- Low and slow: Stew needs time to cook. Let the beef simmer gently for at least 1 1/2 to 2 hours to break down the tough fibers and achieve melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra flavor and variety.
- Make it ahead of time: Beef stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together.
Conclusion
This classic beef stew recipe is the epitome of comfort food. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth that ties everything together, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal or preparing a comforting dinner for guests, this beef stew will not disappoint. Try this recipe and enjoy the delicious, soul-warming flavors of a classic dish that has stood the test of time.
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