Warm up your evenings with this classic beef stew, packed with tender meat and wholesome vegetables. This recipe is a favorite for its comforting flavors and simplicity, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. In this post, we’ll cover the step-by-step recipe, tips for perfecting it, ingredient variations, and more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting and hearty: Ideal for chilly days or when you crave something filling.
- Easy preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for home cooks of all levels.
- Versatile: Serve it for weeknight dinners or impress guests at a dinner party.
- Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and vegetables.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1 pound beef stewing meat, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 5 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 cup red wine
- 3½ cups beef broth, homemade or low-sodium canned
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
- 5 medium carrots, peeled and cut into ¼-inch rounds
- 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 2 teaspoons salt
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- In a bowl, combine flour and pepper. Coat beef cubes evenly with this mixture.
- Heat 3 teaspoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Main Cooking Steps:
- Add beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove browned beef and set aside.
- Add red wine vinegar and wine to the pot, scraping up browned bits. Return beef to the pot.
- Pour in beef broth, add bay leaves, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1½ hours or until beef is tender.
- Final Steps:
- Add onions and carrots to the pot. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add potatoes, simmer until vegetables are tender (about 30 minutes).
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot.
Tips and Variations:
- Thickening: For a thicker stew, mix 1-2 tablespoons of flour with water and stir into the stew during the final cooking stage.
- Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option: Brown beef as directed, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour for dredging the beef.
Storing Leftovers:
- Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Food and Drink Pairings:
- Side Dishes: Crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Beverages: Red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon), beer, or apple cider.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze beef stew? Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- How do I know when the beef is tender? It should easily pull apart with a fork.
- What can I use instead of red wine? Substitute with additional beef broth or grape juice for non-alcoholic options.
Call to Action: Give this comforting beef stew a try for your next family dinner or gathering. It’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!