Hearty Beef Stew Recipe: A Family-Favorite Comfort Food

Looking for a delicious and comforting stew recipe that can be made in just one pot? Then you've come to the right place! Here’s how to make a classic beef stew that is sure to become a family favorite. This hearty beef stew provides warmth, satisfaction, and loads of flavor. Let's dive into creating this delightful dish.

Ingredients for 6 servings:

• 2 lbs (1 kg) beef chuck or short ribs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine or water (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• Cornstarch for thickening (optional)

Steps to Prepare Beef Stew:

1. Start by seasoning the beef with salt and pepper. Heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

2. Add the seasoned beef pieces to the pot, cooking until they turn golden brown on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sweat the onions, celery, and carrots over medium heat for approximately 5 minutes until they soften slightly. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

4. Once softened, return the beef to the pot. Add in garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir everything together well so that all ingredients get evenly coated with spices.

5. Pour beef broth (and red wine or water) into the pot. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat down to low. Cover tightly and let it simmer slowly for about 2 hours until meat is tender but not falling apart.

6. If desired, use cornstarch slurry made from one tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons cold water; add this to the stew towards the end of cooking time if you want a thicker consistency.

7. Before serving, remove and discard any bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Estimated Cooking Time: 2 hours

This beef stew is incredibly versatile and can be customized according to your preference by adding different vegetables like potatoes or pearl onions, which will take about an additional hour of cooking. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations:

• Use beef stew in other dishes: Leftovers can be used to make sandwiches, wraps, or even tacos the next day!
• Add some heat: If you like spicy food, add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.
• Vary the vegetables: Try adding mushrooms or parsnips for extra flavor and texture.
• Change the broth: Experiment with vegetable stock if you prefer a lighter version. You could also try using chicken broth for a different taste altogether!

The best part about this beef stew is its ability to be made in one pot, requiring minimal effort and cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners where simplicity meets satisfaction. This comforting dish will not only fill your home with delicious aromas but also provide sustenance that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Enjoy cooking this richly rewarding beef stew recipe! Whether you're hosting a family dinner or just looking for something cozy to prepare at home, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!