Beef stew is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for any season. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this easy beef stew recipe will guide you through the steps to create a rich and delicious meal packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a savory broth.
Ingredients for Beef Stew Recipe
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Cook Beef Stew
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
- Sear the beef in batches, ensuring each piece browns on all sides (about 4-5 minutes per batch). Set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and celery. Sauté for about 4 minutes until they soften.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Deglaze and Add Liquid
- Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half (about 5 minutes).
- Add the flour and stir for 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Simmer
- Return the beef to the pot and add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
- Remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew Recipe
- Choose the right cut of beef: Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender after slow cooking.
- Don’t rush the searing process: Properly browning the beef adds depth to the stew’s flavor.
- Use a low and slow method: Cooking the stew on a low simmer ensures tender meat and rich flavors.
- Add vegetables gradually: If you prefer firmer vegetables, add them later in the cooking process.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook beef stew?
Beef stew typically takes about 2 hours to cook. The beef should be tender, and the vegetables fully cooked.
What are the best tips for making beef stew?
- Sear the beef for a rich flavor.
- Use a good quality beef broth for depth.
- Cook low and slow for the best results.
Can I make beef stew without wine?
Yes, you can skip the red wine and replace it with an equal amount of beef broth.
Variations
- Slow Cooker Beef Stew: After searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
- Gluten-Free Beef Stew: Replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Beef Stew with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an earthy flavor.
Easy Beef Stew Recipe Card
| Servings | 6-8 |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 2 hours |
| Total Time | 2 hours 20 min |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg