Classic beef stew simmering in a pot with vegetables and herbs

Why Make This Recipe

Classic beef stew is a comforting dish that warms both your body and soul. It offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture, making it a favorite for many families. Not only is it hearty and filling, but it's also great for using up vegetables you might have in your fridge. Making beef stew is also an excellent way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for easy meals throughout the week. Plus, the flavors only get better when the stew sits for a while, making it perfect for meal prep.

How to Make Classic Beef Stew

Making this classic beef stew is simple and enjoyable. With a few easy steps, you'll create a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
¼ cup flour
1 tbsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped (or jalapeño for extra spice)
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
3 cups beef stock or broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 medium yellow potatoes, peeled and diced
3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

Directions:

Start by coating the beef chunks in a mix of flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. This step helps the beef brown nicely and thickens the stew.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef chunks in three batches, cooking each batch for about 5 minutes. Once browned, set the beef aside on a plate.
In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil. Cook the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and celery for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the red wine, beef stock, and Worcestershire sauce. Make sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot, as they add great flavor.
Return the browned beef to the pot along with the Italian seasoning and bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 2 hours.
After 2 hours, add the diced potatoes and carrot chunks to the pot. Continue simmering for another hour until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Once done, remove the pot from heat and let the stew rest. For even better flavors, refrigerate the stew for 24 hours before reheating to serve.

How to Serve Classic Beef Stew

Serving beef stew is easy. Ladle the hot stew into bowls and enjoy it with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want a cozy meal at home.

How to Store Classic Beef Stew

To store your beef stew, let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to let it cool fully before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove until hot.

Tips to Make Classic Beef Stew

For added depth in flavor, consider using a mix of different vegetables like peas or green beans.
If you like some heat, swap the green bell pepper for a jalapeño.
Make sure to brown the beef well; this step builds a lot of flavors.
If you do not have red wine on hand, you can substitute it with more beef broth, but the wine adds a nice richness to the stew.

Variation

You can also try different cuts of meat, like beef shank or brisket, for a unique twist. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can also change the flavor profile and add freshness to the stew.

FAQs

1. Can I use different vegetables in the stew?
Yes, you can add carrots, peas, or any veggies you enjoy. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the beef first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

3. How do I thicken the stew if it's too watery?
If your stew is watery, you can let it simmer uncovered for a bit to reduce it. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the stew, cooking until thickened.

Conclusion

Classic beef stew is a wonderful recipe to have in your cooking repertoire. It's not just simple to prepare but also incredibly rewarding. With its savory flavors and tender meat, it's perfect for family meals or special occasions. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!