The Best Beef Stew is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings. This classic stew features tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and a savory broth that will warm you from the inside out. The flavors come together beautifully with slow cooking, making this a great recipe for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests with a homemade meal that’s full of love and warmth. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the rich, flavorful gravy.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine (optional, or substitute with extra beef broth)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Coat the Beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and toss to coat evenly.
- Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine (or extra beef broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Liquid and Spices: Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Return the seared beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the Stew: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Add Vegetables: Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Finish the Stew: Stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaves and discard.
- Serve: Garnish the stew with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.
Tips for Perfect Beef Stew
- Use the Right Cut of Beef: Beef chuck is ideal for stew because it becomes tender with slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts, as they can become tough.
- Brown the Beef: Searing the beef before simmering adds depth and richness to the stew’s flavor.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Letting the stew simmer slowly allows the flavors to meld together and results in tender beef.
Recipe Variations
- Hearty Beef and Barley Stew: Add 1/2 cup of pearl barley along with the vegetables for extra heartiness.
- Guinness Beef Stew: Replace the red wine with Guinness beer for a rich, deep flavor.
- Vegetable Beef Stew: Add additional vegetables such as parsnips or turnips for more flavor and texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! After searing the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze beef stew?
A: Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve the beef stew with warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Over Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad to add a light, crisp contrast to the rich stew.
The Best Beef Stew is a classic comfort dish that’s packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory, rich broth. Perfect for a cozy evening at home, this stew is easy to make and even better the next day. Whether you serve it with bread, over mashed potatoes, or alongside a salad, this beef stew is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
