Homemade Runderstoofpot: A Step-by-Step Guide to Dutch Beef Stew

Ingredients

1 kg beef chuck, cut into chunks
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 onions, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
500 ml beef broth
2 cups Belgian beer
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 bay leaves
4 sprigs fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the beef chunks to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Brown on all sides, then remove from the pot and set aside.
Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Saute until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are softened.
Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, Belgian beer, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine.
Add the bay leaves and thyme sprigs to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
Simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the stew has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Tools for making

Dutch oven - A large, heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid, perfect for slow cooking stews.
Vegetable peeler - Used for peeling the carrots before chopping them.
Chef's knife - This sharp knife is essential for cutting the beef chuck into chunks.
Cutting board - A sturdy surface for safely chopping vegetables and meat.
Wooden spoon - Ideal for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
Measuring cups - Used to accurately measure the beef broth, Belgian beer, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
Measuring spoons - Essential for measuring the precise amount of brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and other spices.
Tongs - Handy for flipping and removing the beef chunks while browning them.
Ladle - Used for serving the delicious runderstoofpot into bowls.
Oven mitts - Protect your hands when handling the hot Dutch oven.

Recipe variations

Use different cuts of beef, such as stewing beef or beef shank, for a variation in texture and flavor.
Add vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or mushrooms to the stew for extra depth and variety.
Replace the beef with lamb or pork for a different meat option.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with meat alternatives like seitan or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as adding paprika, cumin, or rosemary, to customize the flavors to your liking.
For a richer stew, add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce during the cooking process.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix some flour or cornstarch with water and stir it into the pot to thicken the sauce.
Serve the runderstoofpot with different accompaniments, such as crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Recipe overview

Enjoy a taste of Belgium with this traditional Runderstoofpot, or Belgian beef stew. This hearty and comforting dish is flavored with rich Belgian beer, sweet brown sugar, and tangy apple cider vinegar, creating a wonderfully balanced and deeply satisfying stew. The beef is slow-cooked until it's fall-apart tender, and the sauce thickens naturally as it simmers, resulting in a stew that's perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or sopping up with crusty bread. Expect your kitchen to fill with mouthwatering aromas as this stew cooks, and look forward to a cozy, home-cooked meal that's sure to warm you from the inside out.

Common questions

How long does it take to make this runderstoofpot?
The cooking time for this runderstoofpot is approximately 2-3 hours.
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
Beef chuck is recommended for this recipe as it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
Can I use a different type of beer?
While Belgian beer adds a unique flavor, you can use any type of beer that you prefer or have on hand.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this runderstoofpot actually tastes even better when made ahead of time. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days, and the flavors will continue to develop.

Serving dishes and utensils

Dutch oven - A heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid, perfect for simmering and braising stews.
Cutting board - Used for chopping vegetables and preparing the beef chunks.
Chef's knife - Essential for cutting and trimming the beef and vegetables.
Wooden spoon - Ideal for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking.
Tongs - Useful for flipping and turning the beef chunks while browning.
Ladle - Used for serving the delicious runderstoofpot.
Soup bowls - The perfect vessel for enjoying a warm and comforting stew.

Origin stories

Runderstoofpot, a hearty Dutch beef stew, has been a staple in the Netherlands for centuries. Traditionally, it was cooked slowly over a low flame in a large Dutch oven, which is where the name originates from. The inclusion of Belgian beer gives a nod to the Netherlands' close proximity and cultural ties with Belgium. The stew is often served with a side of potatoes or bread, perfect for soaking up the rich and flavorful broth. It is especially enjoyed during the colder months, providing warmth and comfort on a chilly day. Notably, Dutch sailors were known to have a special fondness for this dish, as the ingredients could be easily stored and cooked onboard, making it a reliable and tasty meal during long sea voyages.

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.