Beef Stew

The Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, especially when the temperature dips and you crave something warm and hearty. Imagine stepping into a cozy kitchen, where the aroma of simmering beef and vegetables envelops you like a comforting blanket. This stew not only fills your belly but also warms your heart, making it ideal for family gatherings or a quiet night in. It’s a dish that fuses the rich flavors of tender meat with vibrant vegetables, creating a wholesome meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

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Whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe guides you through each step, ensuring delicious results every time. From the moment you cut the beef to the first bite of that richly flavored stew, you’ll appreciate the warmth it brings. So, let’s get started creating a dish that will become a beloved staple in your home!

Why This Recipe Works

The Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe achieves that deep, rich flavor you’ve always craved by marrying quality cuts of beef with umami-rich ingredients like red wine and Worcestershire sauce. This balance creates a dish that is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The slow simmering process tenderizes the beef and melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a stew that is rich in taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This The Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that showcases the simplicity of wholesome ingredients. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a warming dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner or meal prepping for the week, this beef stew brings joy, nostalgia, and a cozy atmosphere to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef tri-tip, roast, or short ribs
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• Salt and black pepper
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large sweet onion, diced
• 3 medium celery sticks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 10 small mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 1/2 tsp Italian herbs blend
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tbsp sugar
• Ground black pepper
• 3 to 4 cups halved baby potatoes
• 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
• 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley

Preparing the Beef for Stew

Cut the Beef into Chunks

Cut the beef into 1 1/2-inch chunks. This size is perfect for tender bites that will hold up during cooking.

Sear the Beef

Preheat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a few tablespoons of oil. Once the pan is hot, add the cubed beef, season generously with salt. Sear the beef for 7 to 10 minutes until it’s beautifully browned on all sides.

Saute the Vegetables

Prepare the Mirepoix

Transfer the browned beef to a large soup pot. In the same frying pan, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and the carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté the mixture over medium heat until the onions are translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.

Add Garlic

Once the onion is tender, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Transfer this mirepoix mixture into the soup pot with the beef.

Enhance the Flavor

Sauté the Mushrooms

In the frying pan, add the butter and let it melt. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for 4 to 5 minutes until well browned. Season the mushrooms with salt.

Thicken with Flour

Add the flour to the mushrooms, tossing to coat them evenly. Cook for 1 minute before transferring this mixture into the soup pot.

Build Your Stew Base

Combine the Liquids and Spices

To the soup pot, add the red wine, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, smoked paprika, Italian herbs blend, sugar, and a generous amount of black pepper. Stir to combine.

Simmer for Flavor

Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender.

Adding the Starch and Greens

Incorporate the Potatoes and Peas

Add the halved baby potatoes and frozen peas. If using fresh peas, add them 10 minutes later. Cook potatoes for 20 minutes or until fork-tender.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley prior to serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this robust beef stew with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. A side salad enhances the experience, bringing freshness and crunch.

Tips for Success

• Ensure to sear the beef well for richer flavor.
• Don’t rush the simmering process; let those flavors meld beautifully.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences.

Variations

• Add root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a heartier stew.
• For a spicier kick, throw in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
• Substitute the red wine with beef stock for a non-alcoholic version.

Storage Tips

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Pairing Ideas

Pair this beef stew with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a loaf of rustic sourdough bread. A light side salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, chuck roast or brisket are great alternatives that become tender through slow cooking.

2. How long can I store leftover beef stew?
Leftover stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the meat and vegetables, transfer them to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.

4. Is it necessary to use red wine?
Red wine enhances the flavor, but you can substitute it with additional beef broth.

5. Can I add more vegetables to this stew?
Yes! Feel free to toss in whatever vegetables you love, such as green beans, peas, or corn.

This stew not only fills your belly but also warms the heart, embodying the comfort of home-cooked meals. It’s a staple worth mastering, ensuring that each bowl is packed with flavor, warmth, and a sense of nostalgia. With its rich ingredients and heartwarming aroma, this beef stew becomes a cherished recipe that invites family and friends to gather around the table. Enjoy every comforting bite!

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