Teresa's Recipes
Classic Beef Stew
This classic beef stew is the epitome of comfort food, a warm and hearty dish that fills your home with irresistible aromas on a chilly winter evening. Tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection in a rich broth, paired with vibrant carrots and creamy potatoes, create a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Traditionally enjoyed in many cultures, this stew has roots dating back to ancient times when meats and vegetables were slow-cooked to enhance their flavors. It's a dish that brings families together, evoking memories of cozy gatherings around the hearth.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes Stewing beef
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 large, chopped Onion
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 3, sliced Carrots
- 4 medium, peeled and cubed Potatoes
- 4 cups Beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon, dried Thyme
- 1 Bay leaf
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- Season the stewing beef with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned beef and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, and stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and thyme.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
- Before serving, remove the bay leaf and give the stew a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine when sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences; peas, green beans, or parsnips can be excellent additions.
- Leftover stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.