Hearty Beef Stew Recipe: Perfect for a Cold Winter Evening

Looking for a warming and comforting stew to enjoy during the cold winter months? Our Hearty Beef Stew recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. This dish is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

The key ingredient in this beef stew is chuck roast, which becomes tender through long, slow cooking over low heat. The stew is packed with delicious vegetables like carrots, onions, potatoes, and celery. Together they create a robust, comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 pound of beef chuck roast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 medium onions, halved or thinly sliced
• 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
• 3 tablespoons beef bouillon (or a mix of salt and pepper for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups beef broth (or water if using bouillon powder)
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by prepping the vegetables: Wash all the veggies thoroughly, then cut them into appropriate sizes as mentioned in the ingredients list. This ensures that everything cooks evenly during the slow-cooking process.
2. Mix flour and beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the flour to the beef pieces. Toss until each piece is coated with flour. The flour will help thicken the stew as it absorbs some of the liquid while cooking.
3. Cooking beef and veggies in oil: Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned beef and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. Once the meat is browned on all sides, add the vegetables, garlic cloves, thyme, paprika, bay leaf, black pepper, salt, and bouillon mix (or just salt/pepper).
4. Simmer: Stir everything together, then pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer slowly for about 2 hours or until the meat is very tender.
5. Serve hot: Taste for seasoning before serving. If you prefer your stew thicker, you can thicken the sauce by letting the liquid reduce further or even adding a little more flour mixed with water. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve with crusty bread or over noodles for a complete meal.

Cooking Time and Servings

This recipe serves 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in with friends. The total cooking time is approximately 3 hours, including the initial searing of the beef pieces and the final simmering process.

Why You Should Try Beef Stew

One reason to love this dish is its ability to be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer. Another great feature about beef stew is that you can use leftover vegetables, meat scraps, and even some of the broth for a second meal such as tacos or pasta.

Tips & Tricks

• Choose quality cuts: Chuck roast works wonders in this recipe because it's so flavorful. However, if you're using a cheaper cut like round steak, be prepared to cook it for longer than the recommended 2 hours or consider adding more liquid to help tenderize it.
• Variations: You can switch up your vegetables based on what you have available in your pantry or garden. For example, adding parsnips instead of carrots will give a sweeter flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices as well!
• Dietary considerations: Those watching their sodium intake may want to opt for the bouillon powder option instead of pre-made beef bouillon cubes or stock.

Beef stew is not only delicious but also a versatile dish that can be made with various ingredients and served in many different ways. It's perfect for those who enjoy hearty meals, and it’s easy enough to prepare even if you’re new to the kitchen. So why wait? Try this recipe at home soon and experience the warmth of this beloved classic.