Hearty Homemade Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 3 potatoes, diced
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 1 stalk celery, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the beef stew meat in a large bowl and sprinkle with flour, salt, and pepper. Toss until the meat is well coated.
  2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the coated beef to the pot and brown on all sides. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Add the bay leaf, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped onion to the pot. Stir for another 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1-1/2 hours.
  7. After 1-1/2 hours, add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot.
  8. Put the lid back on the pot and let it simmer for another 30 to 40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  9. Before serving, remove the bay leaf and check the seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Instead of beef stew meat, you can use chicken or lamb for a different meat option.
  • For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with tofu or tempeh.
  • To add some extra flavor, you can include red wine or beer in the broth.
  • For a spicier stew, you can add diced jalapenos or chili powder.
  • If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add tomato paste or cornstarch to the broth.
  • Add a handful of mushrooms to enhance the umami flavor.
  • For a heartier stew, you can add chunks of butternut squash or sweet potatoes.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or cumin.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to coat the meat.
  • To make it more nutritious, you can add a variety of vegetables like green beans, peas, or bell peppers.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you through the process of making a hearty, comforting Beef Stew. Packed full of tender beef and nutritious vegetables, this stew is perfect for cold weather or when you just need a little comfort food. The ingredients are simple and may already be in your kitchen. The process involves slow-cooking the ingredients to bring out their full flavors and create a delicious, rich broth. This recipe takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to make, but the result is a warming, satisfying dish that's worth the wait. It's perfect for Sunday dinner, or to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week. Enjoy this classic Beef Stew with a chunk of crusty bread for dipping!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef for the stew? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef suitable for stewing, such as chuck roast or bottom round. Just make sure to cut it into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
  2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Brown the beef as directed, then transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  3. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, this stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  4. Can I add other vegetables to the stew? Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, beef stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply store it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - Needed to cook the stew and hold all the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - Used to chop the vegetables and prepare the ingredients.
  • Chef's knife - Essential for cutting the beef stew meat and chopping the vegetables.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - Used to accurately measure the flour, salt, pepper, and other ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Ladle - Helpful for serving the stew into bowls or plates.
  • Soup bowls or plates - Required for serving the beef stew.
  • Garnish (optional) - Such as chopped parsley or fresh thyme to sprinkle over the stew for added flavor and presentation.

Origin stories

Beef stew, a hearty dish beloved by many, has diverse origins. It seems every culture has its own version, using ingredients local to that region. However, one particularly interesting tale is tied to the classic French version, "Boeuf Bourguignon". This dish was popularized globally by none other than the iconic Julia Child. As the story goes, when she first arrived in France, she had her first bite of Boeuf Bourguignon, which she described as "the most exciting meal of her life". She loved it so much, she included the recipe in her cookbook, "Mastering the Art of French Cooking". From there, the dish gained popularity and has been a staple of home cooks worldwide ever since. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest, most comforting foods can also be the most transformative.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.