There’s nothing quite like a hearty beef stew simmering away on the stove, filling your home with comforting aromas and promising a delicious meal to come. In this recipe, we’ll be sharing how to make a classic beef stew that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
**Beef Stew Recipe Video**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 3 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, celery, and mushrooms to the pot, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, if using, and stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any accumulated juices, and add the cubed potatoes. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer over low heat for 1 ½ – 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. About 15 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the stew and cook until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Remove the bay leaves before serving the beef stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Creating this savory beef stew is a true labor of love that rewards you with a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a warm hug in a bowl. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for a personalized touch. This beef stew is even better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully after a night in the refrigerator. Serve with crusty bread or over fluffy mashed potatoes for a cozy meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy cooking and savoring this heartwarming dish time and time again with family and friends.
