Classic Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-2 inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional; can substitute with more broth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup celery, sliced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the beef: In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Cook the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Deglaze the pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) or 1 cup of beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
5. Build the stew: Add the browned beef back to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Pour in the remaining beef broth.
6. Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
7. Add vegetables: Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery (if using) to the pot. Cook for another 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
8. Thicken the broth (optional): To thicken, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the stew. Let it simmer until thickened.
9. Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your comforting and flavorful beef stew! If you’d like a twist or variation, let me know.