Ultimate Beef Stew
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Ultimate Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly nights, this stew is packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors that bring everyone to the table.
This Ultimate Beef Stew is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. The secret to its rich flavor lies in slow-cooking the beef until it’s tender and infusing the broth with aromatic herbs and spices.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender chunks of beef that melt in your mouth
- A medley of vegetables that add flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day
A Hearty Classic for Any Occasion
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a classic beef stew. This Ultimate Beef Stew is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and joy to your dining table. Whether it's a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this stew is versatile enough to suit any occasion. The robust flavors and tender meat make it a favorite among both adults and children alike.
What sets this stew apart is the careful balance of ingredients that work harmoniously together. The rich broth, enhanced by red wine and fresh herbs, combines perfectly with the tender chunks of beef and colorful vegetables. Each bite delivers a satisfying taste that lingers, making it a dish you’ll want to savor and share.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the greatest advantages of making this Ultimate Beef Stew is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch and refrigerate or freeze portions for future meals. The flavors continue to develop as the stew sits, making leftovers even more delicious the next day. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, and you have a quick and hearty meal ready to go.
This stew is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Just pair it with some crusty bread or a simple salad, and you have a complete meal that feels like a treat.
Customizing Your Beef Stew
While this recipe provides a solid base for a delicious beef stew, feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Add your favorite root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for an extra layer of flavor, or toss in some peas or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition. You can even experiment with spices to give it a unique twist based on your taste preferences.
For a richer flavor profile, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf during the simmering process. These small adjustments can elevate your stew to new heights, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with flavor and warmth.
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Sear the Beef
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the carrots and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Build the Stew
Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
Simmer
Let the stew simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and add more broth if necessary.
Serve
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Enjoy your delicious Ultimate Beef Stew!
Serving Suggestions
This Ultimate Beef Stew pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a traditional approach, serve it with thick slices of crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the rich broth. Alternatively, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist that enhances the dish's heartiness.
You can also add a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the stew. A simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast and complete your meal beautifully.
Storing and Reheating
To store your leftover stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then reheat it gently on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
If the stew thickens too much during storage, simply add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. This will help maintain the stew's rich flavors while ensuring it's perfectly enjoyable on your next serving.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this Ultimate Beef Stew a delight for the taste buds, but it's also packed with nutritional benefits. The tender beef provides a great source of protein and essential iron, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health. The addition of vegetables such as carrots and potatoes contributes vitamins and minerals, making this dish a well-rounded meal.
Moreover, cooking with fresh ingredients allows you to control what goes into your stew, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought options. By preparing this stew at home, you can enjoy a hearty dish that nourishes both body and soul, all while knowing exactly what ingredients are included.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is preferred for its tenderness when slow-cooked.
→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sear the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
→ How can I thicken the stew?
You can add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) during the last 10 minutes or mash some of the potatoes in the stew.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, beef stew freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Ultimate Beef Stew
Ultimate Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly nights, this stew is packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors that bring everyone to the table.
Created by: Rebecca Turner
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stew
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the carrots and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
Let the stew simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and add more broth if necessary.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 36g