© Original Recipe By Magic Spoon Recipes ©
Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe 🥘🍖🔥
1. Introduction
Welcome to your ultimate guide on how to make a beef stew that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for comforting meals. This homemade beef stew recipe combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, all simmered to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this simple beef stew recipe will become a family favorite. Discover how easy it is to create a delicious, rustic dish that warms your soul on chilly days.
2. Ingredients Needed for this Hearty Beef Stew
- 2 pounds of beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Classic Beef Stew
Preparing the Beef
Start by seasoning your beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, then add the beef. Brown the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes until it develops a rich, golden crust. Remove and set aside.
Sautéing Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, toss in the carrots, potatoes, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
Adding Liquids and Seasonings
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste for depth of flavor. Pour in the beef broth and add the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the ingredients are well combined.
Simmering for Tenderness
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.
Finishing Touches
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Garnish your hearty beef stew with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.
4. Storage Tips and Leftover Ideas
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This simple beef stew tastes even better the next day as flavors intensify. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Meal
Serve your beef stew with warm crusty bread or a side of buttery mashed potatoes. Add a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For an extra comforting touch, you can top with grated cheese or serve with a glass of red wine.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Beef Stew
Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute beef shoulder or other tougher cuts that benefit from slow cooking. These cuts become very tender and flavorful when braised for a long time.
How long does it take to prepare this homemade beef stew?
The active prep time is about 20-30 minutes, and the simmering takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to develop the richest flavors and tender meat.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After sautéing the beef and vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Check out our creamy cheesy slow cooker crack chicken soup for another slow-cooker idea.
Are there healthy substitutions for this recipe?
You can use leaner cuts of beef, reduce salt, or add extra vegetables like peas or green beans to boost nutrition. Check out our easy one-pan pasta recipes for healthy meal ideas.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Enhance your beef stew cooking experience with top-quality tools. The T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even cooking and easy cleanup, making your stew preparation seamless. For quick searing and browning, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer is an excellent addition. To perfect your kitchen setup, check out the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer, which combines durable performance with elegant design to elevate all your cooking tasks.
8. Additional Tips to Make Your Beef Stew Even Better
- Allow the stew to rest for 10 minutes before serving for optimal flavor absorption.
- Adjust the thickness of the broth by adding a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker stew.
- Customize with different vegetables based on what’s in season or your preference.
9. Conclusion
This easy homemade beef stew recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it accessible to cooks of all levels. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings for a personalized touch. Enjoy your flavorful, hearty beef stew with family and friends, and savor the wholesome goodness! For more kitchen gadgets and accessories, visit our recommended products – each designed to improve your cooking experience and bring professional results to your home kitchen.
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Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe
A comforting and hearty beef stew perfect for a cozy night in.
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add beef cubes and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add beef back to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Notes
- You can add peas or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- For a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and add to the simmering stew during the last 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Method: Stovetop simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free, Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg