This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is the quintessential comfort food that warms both the heart and the soul. Packed with tender beef chuck, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this stew delivers a rich, savory flavor that transports you straight to a cozy kitchen on a chilly day. What makes this dish truly special is the slow-cooked depth of flavor that develops as it simmers, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy night in. You simply can’t go wrong with a bowl of this hearty stew!
I still remember the first time I made this Old-Fashioned Beef Stew for my family. It was a cold winter evening, and I wanted to create something warm and comforting. As the stew simmered on the stove, the delicious aroma filled our home, and my husband couldn’t resist sneaking a taste before it was ready! When we finally sat down to eat, the entire family raved about how tender the beef was and how the flavors melded together perfectly. Since that night, it has become our go-to recipe for special occasions and a staple during the colder months. It’s become a family tradition to gather around the table with bowls of this stew, sharing stories and laughter, making it all the more special.
Why This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew?
- Classic Comfort: This stew is a hearty meal that evokes nostalgia, perfect for cozy family dinners.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Made with beef chuck, aromatic vegetables, and a splash of red wine (if desired), the stew is rich and savory.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. You can make it your own while keeping that classic taste.
- Slow-Cooked Goodness: The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, this stew is both approachable for novice cooks and satisfying for seasoned chefs.
Ingredients:
- 900g (2 lbs) beef chuck, cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
- 15g (2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced (about 150g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 950ml (4 cups) beef broth
- 240ml (1 cup) red wine (optional)
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced (about 180g)
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 450g)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (about 100g)
- 150g (1 cup) frozen peas
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 15g (1 tbsp) tomato paste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Beef:
Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper. Toss the seasoned beef in flour, ensuring they are evenly coated while shaking off any excess flour. - Sear the Beef:
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the beef cubes to the pot and sear them until they are browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside. - Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. - Deglaze the Pot:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. If using red wine, pour it in now, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. - Add the Broth and Vegetables:
Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaves, thyme, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and chopped celery. Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 ½ to 2 hours. Stir occasionally until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. - Finish the Stew:
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Serve:
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes:
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans for more variety and flavor.
- Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional beef broth or even a splash of vinegar for acidity.
- Make Ahead: This stew can be made a day in advance. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for future meals—just allow it to cool completely before freezing.
This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is a comforting and delicious dish that brings families together and warms the soul. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your household too!