Welcome to a journey of culinary delight with our classic beef stew recipe! This hearty dish is a staple in many households, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening or bringing comfort any time of the year. Combining tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this stew is not just a meal but an experience. Whether you're an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, our step-by-step guide ensures you'll create a mouthwatering stew that will impress family and friends. Let's dive into the world of robust flavors and nourishing goodness with this timeless recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 cups pearl onions, peeled
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions :
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine reduces by half.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1 hour, covered.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the carrots, potatoes, pearl onions, and mushrooms to the pot. Simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Thicken the Stew:
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with cold water to make a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew and let it cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the stew to thicken.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your hearty beef stew!