A Hearty Classic: Savory Beef Stew Recipe

Introduction

A traditional beef stew combines tender beef, robust vegetables, and a thick, savory sauce. It’s a staple comfort food that warms the heart and fills the stomach, ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 kg beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup frozen peas

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, not crowding the pot, and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Cook until onions are translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and red wine, stirring well. Add the tomato paste, thyme, pepper, salt, and bay leaves. Return the beef to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 hours.
4. Add Veggies: Add carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper to the pot. Continue to simmer covered for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Final Touches: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste and remove the bay leaves before serving.

Conclusion

Serve this rich and savory beef stew with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a fulfilling dish that brings the simplicity of home-cooked meals to your dining table, perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy the deep flavors and tender bites of beef that make this stew a comforting classic.