Let’s warm up the house and treat our taste buds with a hearty and comforting Beef Chestnut Stew! This delicious dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something filling and nutritious. Packed with tender beef, earthy chestnuts, and aromatic herbs, this stew will surely become a favorite in your cozy kitchen.
**Beef Chestnut Stew**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup chestnuts, peeled and cooked
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the carrots and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the cooked chestnuts, beef broth, red wine, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
4. Taste the stew and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. You can also adjust the consistency of the stew by adding more broth or wine if desired.
5. Serve the Beef Chestnut Stew hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy this comforting meal with some crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying dining experience.
This Beef Chestnut Stew is a wonderful recipe to have in your repertoire for family meals or entertaining guests. The combination of savory beef, sweet chestnuts, and aromatic herbs creates a rich and heartwarming dish that will fill your home with delightful scents. Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick and tasty meal on busy days. This stew only gets better as the flavors meld together, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time for even more depth of flavor. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to simmer up a pot of pure comfort and deliciousness!