Nothing quite warms the soul like a hearty bowl of old-fashioned beef stew. This classic dish brings together tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory broth for a comforting meal that is perfect for cozy nights at home. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious stew that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe for Old Fashioned Beef Stew.
**Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add the flour and toss until the beef is coated evenly.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the carrots, celery, beef broth, red wine, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
6. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
7. Remove the bay leaves and taste the stew, adjusting the salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve the Old Fashioned Beef Stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this comforting meal with some crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes.
There you have it – a timeless Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe that is sure to become a staple in your cozy home cooking repertoire. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients come together beautifully in this comforting dish. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own. Invite your family and friends to gather around the table and savor each spoonful of this delicious stew. A taste of nostalgia in every bite!
