Classic Beef Stew
A warm and hearty beef stew loaded with protein and seasonal vegetables, perfect for family dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Beef Stew
- 2 pounds Beef Chuck Rich flavor and tenderness that melts in your mouth.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds a fresh taste and helps in browning the beef.
- 1 large Onion Provides a sweet and savory base for the stew.
- 3 medium Carrots Sweet, earthy flavor that complements the beef.
- 4 medium Potatoes Creates a comforting, filling texture.
- 4 cloves Garlic Imparts aromatic depth and enhances overall flavor.
- 4 cups Beef Broth The heart of the stew, rich in flavor.
- 1 cup Red Wine Adds complexity to the flavor profile (non-alcoholic equivalent available).
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Deepens the richness and adds sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Infuses the stew with earthy notes.
- 1 leaf Bay Leaf Adds subtle fragrance and flavor.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning to taste.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Brightens the dish as a final garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and equipment.
- Cube the beef chuck into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces.
- Mince the garlic, ensuring no large chunks remain.
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cubed beef chuck and sear until browned on all sides, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
- Mix in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes, stirring until coated.
- Add the minced garlic, tomato paste, dried thyme, bay leaf, and mix well.
- Pour in beef broth and red wine, bringing it to a simmer.
- Cover and reduce heat to low, allowing to simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
Serving
- Once the beef is tender and flavors melded, remove from heat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting for personal preference.
- Discard the bay leaf before serving, and ladle into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
Notes
For an even richer flavor, let your stew sit overnight in the fridge. Use a heavy pot like a Dutch oven to maintain even cooking temperatures. Consider adding extra vegetables like parsnips or peas for variety.