Beef Stew Recipe

This classic beef stew recipe is a hearty, slow-cooked dish featuring tender beef, rich vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping, it’s an easy one-pot recipe that delivers comfort and warmth with every bite. Ideal for cold evenings or busy days, this stew is packed with nutrients and customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds cubed beef chuck or beef stewing meat (see note)
• Flour, for dredging
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided, plus more as needed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 sticks celery, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste (see note)
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thickly
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Peel and cut the potatoes and carrots just before adding them in step 8 to prevent browning.
2. Dredge Beef: Coat the beef cubes in flour and shake off the excess.
3. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in two batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Let the beef sear undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to form a golden crust. Add more oil as needed for the second batch. Transfer browned beef to a plate.
4. Sauté Aromatics: If the pot is dry, add a teaspoon of oil. Sauté onions and celery for 5 minutes until softened.
5. Cook Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently.
6. Deglaze Pot: Pour in red wine, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
7. Simmer the Stew: Return the beef and any juices to the pot. Add Italian seasoning and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
8. Add Vegetables: Stir in potatoes and carrots. Cover and simmer for another hour, or until the vegetables and beef are tender. Stir occasionally and adjust heat as needed.
9. Finish with Peas: Remove bay leaves, stir in frozen peas, and let them warm through.
10. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: A combination of seared beef, red wine, and tomato paste creates a deep and hearty flavor.
• Comforting Classic: Perfect for cold days or when you need a warm, satisfying meal.
• Easy to Adapt: Flexible recipe that can be tailored to your preferences or pantry staples.
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.

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Tips

• Choose the Right Meat: Opt for beef chuck or stewing meat with good marbling for tender results.
• Layer Flavors: Properly sear the beef and deglaze the pot to maximize flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the stew vigorously to prevent tough meat.
• Stir Occasionally: Ensure nothing sticks or scorches, especially during long cooking times.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Substitute beef with lamb or chicken for a different take.
• Vegetables: Add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for variety.
• Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for dredging the beef.
• Wine Alternative: Replace wine with additional beef broth if preferred.

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FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Can I freeze beef stew?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What can I use instead of red wine?
You can substitute red wine with extra beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic option.

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Serving

Serve beef stew with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes. It’s also delicious with a side of steamed rice or buttered noodles for a hearty meal.

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Suggestions

• For Extra Richness: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream when serving.
• Make It Spicy: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Garnish Ideas: Top with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness.