Classic Beef Stew Recipe

by

Sure! Here’s a detailed recipe, including everything you requested, for a Classic Beef Stew—a hearty, comforting dish loved by many around the world.

Classic Beef Stew Recipe

Introduction

Beef stew is a beloved dish enjoyed across cultures for centuries. It’s a slow-cooked meal made with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. The origins of beef stew can be traced back to ancient times when people discovered that slow-cooking meat with liquid made it tender and delicious. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter night or as a satisfying meal any time of the year, this dish remains a favorite for many.

Ingredients

For the Stew:

  • 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large carrots, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 cup peas (optional, added at the end)
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)

For Serving:

  • Crusty bread or mashed potatoes

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

  1. Cut the beef into bite-sized cubes and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  2. Chop the onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and celery into even-sized pieces.

Step 2: Searing the Meat

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the beef in batches, browning on all sides (about 3–4 minutes per batch). Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 3: Building Flavor

  1. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté the onions for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the garlic and tomato paste, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmering the Stew

  1. Pour in the red wine (if using) and deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  2. Add the beef back into the pot, followed by the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Adding Vegetables

  1. After 1 hour of cooking, add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir well.
  2. Continue simmering for another 30–45 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Thickening the Stew

  1. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little water to create a smooth paste.
  2. Stir the paste into the stew and cook for another 10 minutes until thickened.
  3. Add peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Serving the Stew

  1. Remove the bay leaf and check the seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed.
  2. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

History of Beef Stew

Beef stew dates back to prehistoric times when early humans cooked meat with water over fire. In medieval Europe, slow-cooked meat dishes became common as a way to tenderize tougher cuts. The French “Boeuf Bourguignon” and the Hungarian “Goulash” are famous variations of beef stew. Today, different cultures have their own versions, from Irish stew to Japanese Nikujaga.

Formation of the Dish

The beauty of beef stew lies in its slow-cooked process. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, making the beef tender and the broth rich and hearty. By layering ingredients step by step—searing the meat, sautéing aromatics, and adding liquid gradually—the dish builds deep, complex flavors.

Conclusion

Beef stew is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. Whether made for a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or a cozy night alone, it never fails to satisfy. Its ability to be frozen and reheated makes it a perfect meal-prep dish.

Lovers of Beef Stew

Beef stew is adored worldwide by home cooks, chefs, and food lovers alike. From busy parents looking for a hearty family meal to gourmet food enthusiasts experimenting with flavors, this dish has universal appeal. It’s also a favorite among athletes and fitness lovers for its high protein and nutrient-rich ingredients.

Methods of Enjoying Beef Stew

  • Classic Style: Served with crusty bread.
  • Over Rice or Pasta: Adds extra texture and makes it even more filling.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: A creamy and comforting combination.
  • In a Bread Bowl: A fun and delicious way to serve it.
  • As a Leftover Dish: Even better the next day, as the flavors deepen overnight.

This recipe is guaranteed to impress! Will you be trying it soon? Let me know how it turns out!

Leave a Comment