Classic Beef Stew Recipe

Classic Beef Stew Recipe

This Classic Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for cold weather or whenever you crave a rich, savory meal. Made with tender beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this stew is slow-cooked to perfection, making it a family favorite for generations. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and will leave your kitchen smelling amazing!

A Brief History of Beef Stew

Beef stew is a dish with ancient origins, dating back to early times when people cooked meat and vegetables together in a pot. Versions of this dish are found in cultures around the world, from the French boeuf bourguignon to the Irish beef and Guinness stew. This classic American version uses a simple combination of beef, vegetables, and broth to create a rich and satisfying meal.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Beef Chuck

For a stew, beef chuck is ideal because it becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow. It’s a more affordable cut of beef, but with long, slow cooking, it develops deep flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Pro Tip: Cut the beef into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking.

Vegetables

The classic combination of carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery adds sweetness, texture, and heartiness to the stew. They also soak up the delicious beefy broth.

• Pro Tip: Add the potatoes and carrots later in the cooking process to avoid them becoming too soft.

Beef Broth

A rich, flavorful beef broth is essential for a good stew. It forms the base of the dish, blending with the juices from the beef and vegetables to create a savory, comforting sauce.

• Pro Tip: For extra flavor, use a combination of beef broth and red wine.

How to Make Classic Beef Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
3. Add the beef to the pot in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

• Pro Tip: Browning the beef adds depth and richness to the stew’s flavor, so don’t skip this step.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced into rounds
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

1. In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes to enhance its flavor.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

1. Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
2. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Return the seared beef to the pot, cover, and cook on low heat for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. About 30 minutes before the stew is done, add the potatoes and cook until tender.
5. Stir in the peas (if using) during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Classic Beef Stew with a side of crusty bread or buttermilk biscuits to soak up the rich broth. For a heartier meal, you can also serve the stew over a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside a fresh green salad.

Variations and Add-Ins

Beef Stew with Mushrooms

For an earthier flavor, add sliced mushrooms to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Spicy Beef Stew

For a spicy kick, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the stew along with the other seasonings.

Gluten-Free Beef Stew

To make this stew gluten-free, simply omit the flour (if using) and use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe can be adapted for different dietary needs:

• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium beef broth and reduce the amount of salt to control the sodium content.
• Dairy-Free: This beef stew is naturally dairy-free, making it perfect for those with lactose intolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Classic Beef Stew Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make the stew in a slow cooker, follow the instructions for searing the beef and cooking the vegetables. Then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Can I freeze beef stew?
Yes, beef stew freezes well. Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do I store leftover beef stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.