Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to make a mouth-watering Old Fashioned Beef Stew that will warm your soul on cold winter evenings. Picture this: tender beef simmered in a rich, savory broth alongside hearty vegetables, all coming together to create a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is not just a dish; it’s a tradition passed down through generations, bringing families together around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s a one-pot wonder that is both delicious and incredibly easy to make. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a depth of taste that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.
One of the best things about this stew is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your preferences by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters or to use up produce that’s been sitting in your fridge. Plus, with its hearty and wholesome ingredients, this stew is not only comforting but also nutritious.
Ingredients
For this Old Fashioned Beef Stew, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of stewing beef, cubed
– 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to swap out the vegetables or adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. You can also add in other ingredients like mushrooms, celery, or peas for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef in batches until it is nicely seared on all sides. This step is crucial for building flavor in the stew.
3. Once all the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. Add the carrots and potatoes to the stew and continue simmering until the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty meal with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes.
Expert Tips for Success
For the most flavorful stew, opt for well-marbled cuts of beef like chuck or stewing beef. These cuts will become tender and juicy when cooked low and slow.
Don’t rush the browning process. Taking the time to sear the beef properly will enhance the overall taste of the stew.
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with some water and stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. The flavors will continue to develop, making the stew even more delicious the next day.
Variations and Substitutions
To add a depth of flavor to your stew, consider adding a splash of red wine or a dollop of Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients will elevate the taste profile of the dish.
If you’re looking to make this stew vegetarian-friendly, you can swap the beef for hearty mushrooms like portobello or cremini. The mushrooms will provide a meaty texture and absorb the savory flavors of the broth.
For a gluten-free option, ensure that your beef broth and tomato paste are certified gluten-free. You can also thicken the stew with a gluten-free flour or cornstarch slurry.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the stew to your liking. Rosemary, bay leaves, or paprika can add interesting flavor dimensions to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew pairs perfectly with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles. The starchiness of these accompaniments helps soak up the delicious gravy from the stew.
You can also serve the stew with a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish. A glass of red wine or a cold beer complements the savory flavors of the stew.
For a cozy and casual dinner, ladle the stew into individual bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with a basket of warm dinner rolls for a complete meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps of browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables before transferring everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: How can I thicken the stew without using cornstarch?
A: You can create a roux by melting butter and whisking in flour to form a paste. Add the roux to the stew and simmer until thickened.
Q: Is it necessary to marinate the beef before cooking?
A: While marinating the beef can enhance the flavor, it’s not necessary for this recipe. The stewing process will infuse the meat with ample taste.
Q: Can I freeze the stew?
A: Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly day, a taste of nostalgia, and a labor of love. Taking the time to prepare this hearty dish is an act of self-care and a way to nourish both body and soul. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary journey that will fill your home with warmth and your heart with contentment.
Old Fashioned Beef Stew
A comforting and hearty stew with tender beef, savory broth, and a mix of vegetables, creating a delicious and nostalgic meal to warm your soul.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds stewing beef, cubed
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Brown the beef in batches until seared on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic in the pot until soft and fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
- Add carrots and potatoes, and continue simmering until vegetables are cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with bread or over mashed potatoes.
Nutrition Facts
