Hearty Beef Stew Recipe: Perfect for a Cold Day

When the weather turns cold, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of beef stew to warm you from the inside out. This classic recipe is perfect for those days when you want something hearty and satisfying. The rich flavors and tender chunks of beef make it a favorite in many households.

This beef stew not only tastes delicious but also provides a healthy meal option, packed with protein. It’s suitable for all ages and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with some crusty bread. Making this dish is relatively simple; you just need to invest a little time during the cooking process to let it simmer until the flavors meld perfectly.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 medium onions, sliced
• 6 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

Preparation:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches to avoid crowding the pan and ensure even browning. Once browned on all sides, remove from the pot.

Add the onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing until softened. Add the carrots and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

Cooking:

Return the beef cubes to the pot with the vegetables. Sprinkle flour over everything and stir well to coat evenly. Pour in the beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Stir gently but thoroughly.

Cover the pot and place it on low heat. Allow the stew to simmer slowly for about 2 hours or until the meat is very tender. Stir occasionally during this time to prevent sticking.

After two hours, add potatoes to the pot and continue cooking for another hour or so, depending on the size of your cubes. The potatoes should be cooked through but not mushy.

Serving:

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for an extra touch of comfort.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (depending on portion size)
• Protein: About 30 grams per serving
• Fat: Around 18 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25 grams per serving

This beef stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as part of a meal or used as a base for other recipes. Leftovers are also delicious and make great lunch options the following day.

Tips & Variations

• If you like your stew with a bit more heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper towards the end of cooking.
• Feel free to substitute beef broth for chicken broth if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
• Add a few diced apples or pears into the pot during the last hour of cooking for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor complexity.

Braising beef in liquid over low heat allows it to become tender while locking in all its natural flavors. This method ensures that every bite is moist, flavorful, and satisfyingly rich. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or looking for something comforting to prepare on your own, this hearty beef stew recipe is sure to impress.

Comfort food isn't just about taste; it's also about the joy of cooking with loved ones and enjoying good meals together. So next time the weather turns chilly, why not try this tried-and-true recipe for beef stew? You'll find yourself coming back for more after your first bite!