Homemade Beef Stew Recipe

I made this Homemade Beef Stew recipe with love. I love to make it when it’s cold outside, and my whole family enjoys having it for dinner during these chilly days.

Since I’ve made lots of Beef Stew before, I wanted to share the best one with you. I used around 2 lbs of beef chuck along with a variety of herbs and spices. But don’t worry, I made it the classic way, yet it’s still easy and simple to prepare.

One thing I always love to have with Beef Stew is a slice of potato bread or garlic bread. Both are perfect for me and make the meal even better.

What is Homemade Beef Stew?

Homemade Beef Stew is a warm and cozy dish with soft beef, yummy vegetables, and tasty broth. It’s perfect for cold days when you want something that so cozy to enjoy. This recipe has been loved by families for a long time, and it’s really healthy too.

Why You Should Try Homemade Beef Stew

You should try Homemade Beef Stew because it’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and tastes even better the next day. It’s the ultimate one-pot meal that everyone loves. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that you can customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and sweetness)

How to Make Beef Stew?

1. Prep the Beef

Toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until well-coated. This will help thicken the stew as it cooks.

2. Sear the Meat

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning each side. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Base

In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and golden. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.

4. Build the Broth

Pour in the beef broth and water, scraping the bottom of the pot to release the flavorful browned bits.

5. Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together.

6. Simmer

Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.

7. Add Final Touches

Stir in the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

8. Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy while it’s hot.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Helpful Tips!

1. Use beef chuck for the best flavor and tenderness.
2. Brown the meat in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
3. Add a splash of red wine to the broth for extra depth of flavor.
4. Keep the stew covered while simmering to trap moisture.
5. For a thicker stew, mash a few potato chunks directly into the pot.

What to Serve with Homemade Beef Stew?

When serving Homemade Beef Stew, there are plenty of tasty sides to pair with it. You can enjoy it with a warm slice of potato bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth. Also, a fresh green salad with a light dressing is good with it. Roasted vegetables, make a great addition. Mashed potatoes are always a comforting choice to complement the stew’s flavors. For something extra, try some buttery corn on the cob.

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FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, sear the beef first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free alternative.

What other vegetables can I add?

Parsnips, turnips, mushrooms, or green beans are great additions.

How can I make the stew thicker?

Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Homemade Beef Stew is a classic, comforting dish that everyone loves. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Be sure to subscribe to our blog for more easy, family-friendly recipes like this one. Happy cooking!