Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the Beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the pot in batches, searing on all sides until browned. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

1. Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Stew

1. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce by half.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Return the browned beef to the pot.
3. Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

1. Add Vegetables: Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
2. Thicken the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a small amount of water to make a slurry, and stir it into the stew. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to thicken.
3. Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 5 minutes, just until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the bay leaves and stir in fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Serve Hot: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

• Choose the Right Beef: Chuck roast is ideal for stews because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
• Low and Slow: Simmer the stew slowly to break down the collagen in the meat, resulting in tender beef and rich flavor.
• Make Ahead: Beef Stew tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time and reheating.

Conclusion

Beef Stew is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth makes it a dish that everyone loves. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a satisfying meal prep option, this Beef Stew recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys classic, home-cooked flavors. Enjoy the comforting goodness of this dish with your loved ones!