There’s something truly special about the heartwarming aroma of a simmering stew filling your home on a chilly day. One pot wonders like stews not only make for a comforting meal but also evoke a sense of coziness and nostalgia. Today, we bring you a delightful recipe inspired by the hearty and traditional flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Our Pennsylvania Dutch Stew is a rich and savory dish that combines tender meat, root vegetables, and aromatic seasonings to create a satisfying meal that will warm both body and soul.
Pennsylvania Dutch Stew
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup sliced celery
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Return the browned beef stew meat to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water, then stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the stew is too thick, you can add more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. Once the stew is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy the Pennsylvania Dutch Stew with some crusty bread or buttered noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. This stew gets even better as it sits, so feel free to make a big batch to enjoy as leftovers throughout the week. The hearty flavors and comforting nature of this dish make it perfect for cozy nights in or for sharing with loved ones on a festive occasion. Embrace the spirit of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine with this flavorful and nourishing stew that is sure to become a family favorite in no time.
