Hearty Beef Stew: A Bowl of Comfort and Nutrition
As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of beef stew to nourish the body and soul. This isn't just any stew; it's a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Forget the fancy stuff – we're talking real, stick-to-your-ribs goodness.
Why This Beef Stew is a Winner
- Nutrient-Packed: This stew is loaded with root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, providing essential vitamins and fiber. It's a complete meal in one pot!
- Family Favorite: It’s a fantastic way to get everyone to eat their vegetables without complaint! The tender, flavorful veggies meld beautifully with the rich beef.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Have some extra veggies in the fridge? Toss them in! This stew is a great way to use up what you have on hand, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor.
- Memory Maker: Just like those cherished family recipes passed down through generations, this is one that you'll make again and again, creating your own traditions.
Making the Magic Happen
The secret to an amazing beef stew lies in the browning of the beef and the gentle simmering that allows the flavors to meld. It's a simple process, but the end result is pure magic.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 lbs stewing beef, trimmed and cubed
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 fresh sprig)
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 celery stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3/4 cup peas
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Coat the Beef: In a large bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes and toss until they are well coated.
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and onions and cook until the beef is browned on all sides.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) and the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds lots of depth to the flavor.
- Add the Veggies: Stir in the tomato paste, rosemary, potatoes, carrots, and celery.
- Simmer Until Tender: Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering stew, stirring until the stew reaches your desired consistency.
- Final Touch: Add the peas and simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with a side of mashed potatoes or a hunk of crusty bread.
Pro Tip
For the ultimate comfort, try serving this stew with a side of creamy mashed potatoes! Boil your potatoes until tender, then mash with a little milk and butter for an easy side dish that is perfect to accompany the stew.
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Enjoy the comfort and nourishment of this classic beef stew, knowing that you're serving up a dish that's good for the body and soul.