1green bell pepper, chopped (or jalapeño for extra spice)
2stalkscelery, chopped
4clovesgarlic, minced
2tbsptomato paste
1cupred wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
3cupsbeef stock or broth
1tbspWorcestershire sauce
For the vegetables
2mediumyellow potatoes, peeled and diced
3largecarrots, peeled and cut into chunks
Instructions
Preparation
Coat the beef chunks in a mix of flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef chunks in batches, cooking each for about 5 minutes and setting aside once browned.
Cooking
Add the remaining olive oil to the pot. Cook the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the red wine, beef stock, and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
Return the browned beef along with the Italian seasoning and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2 hours.
After 2 hours, add the diced potatoes and carrot chunks and continue simmering for another hour until meat is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
Serving
Remove the pot from heat and let the stew rest. For better flavors, refrigerate for 24 hours before reheating.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread or over rice. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for about 3 months.