Who doesn’t love a warm bowl of beef stew on a chilly day? This Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe is your key to comfort and flavor. With tender beef, fresh veggies, and rich broth, this dish warms the soul. In this post, I’ll guide you through every step. You’ll soon impress your family and friends with this hearty meal. Let’s get started on making a classic dish everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
– 2 pounds beef chuck
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 medium onions
– 3 cloves garlic
– 4 carrots
– 3 celery stalks
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 cups diced potatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
I love using beef chuck for this stew. It has just the right fat and flavor. The meat becomes tender and juicy after cooking. I also add vegetable oil to help brown the beef. This step gives the stew a rich taste.
Next, I chop two onions and mince three cloves of garlic. These add depth to the stew. Carrots and celery bring in sweetness and color. I slice four carrots and three celery stalks for texture.
Beef broth is key for flavor. I use two cups in the stew. Diced potatoes add heartiness. I usually use about two large potatoes. Tomato paste rounds out the flavors and adds richness.
For herbs, I add dried thyme and rosemary. They enhance the taste with their earthy notes. A bay leaf adds another layer of flavor. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste!
If you like, you can add frozen peas for a pop of color. They go in the last few minutes of cooking. Finally, I sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a fresh finish. You can find the full recipe [here](#).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beef
First, we need to brown the beef. Cut the beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches. Make sure they do not touch each other. Sear each piece until it is brown on all sides. This step gives the beef a rich flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Sautéing the Aromatics
Next, it’s time to sauté the onions and garlic. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the onions to turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds a strong base for your stew.
Adding Vegetables
Now, we will add the carrots and celery. Stir in the sliced carrots and celery into the pot. Cook them for about 5 minutes. You want them to soften slightly. This adds sweetness and texture to your stew.
Combining the Ingredients
Now, let’s combine everything. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add in 2 cups of beef broth, diced potatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and your spices: 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and dried rosemary, plus 1 bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to mix all the flavors together.
Simmering the Stew
It’s time to simmer the stew. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally. You want the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Final Touches
For the last step, incorporate the peas if you are using them. Add the frozen peas in the last 10 minutes of cooking. This adds a pop of color and sweetness. Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a lovely finish.
For the full experience, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your beef stew taste amazing, use fresh herbs when you can. Fresh thyme and rosemary bring a bright taste. Dried herbs work too, but fresh gives more flavor. Always brown your meat first. This adds a rich, deep taste to the stew. Searing the beef creates a nice crust. This step is key for a hearty stew.
Texture Adjustments
If you want a thicker stew, try adding a flour slurry. Mix equal parts flour and water, then stir it in. You can also mash some potatoes in the stew for a creamy texture. Adding more vegetables brings color and variety. Think about using peas, green beans, or mushrooms. They all add different tastes and textures.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your stew with warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the rich broth. You can also serve it over creamy mashed potatoes. This makes each bite comforting. For a fun twist, offer toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream. Your guests will love the extra touch. You can find the full recipe to make this stew a family favorite.
Variations
Alternative Protein Choices
You can change the beef in this stew if you want. Using chicken is one option. Chicken becomes tender and absorbs flavors well. You can use boneless chicken thighs for a rich taste. Just cook it until golden, then follow the same steps as with beef.
Pork is another great choice. Pork shoulder works nicely. It also becomes tender, and it adds a different flavor. Cut it into cubes like the beef and brown it the same way.
If you need a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms. They add a nice umami flavor. Use hearty mushrooms like portobello or shiitake. You can also add lentils for protein. They cook quickly and add a nice texture.
Vegetable Additions
Adding vegetables can make your stew even better. You can use seasonal veggies like butternut squash or sweet potatoes in the fall. They bring a sweet flavor and nice color. In spring, add peas or green beans for freshness.
Feel free to adjust based on your taste. If you love greens, add kale or spinach near the end of cooking. Just stir them in for a few minutes. This way, they stay bright and vibrant.
Spice and Flavor Variations
Herbs can change the flavor of your stew. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add brightness. You can try adding bay leaves or oregano for depth.
Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. This gives your stew a nice kick. Experimenting with spices can help you find your perfect blend!
For the full recipe, check the Classic Comfort Beef Stew section above.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your beef stew fresh, store it properly. First, let the stew cool down to room temperature. This helps avoid steam buildup in the container. Then, transfer the stew to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days.
For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled stew into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to leave some space at the top. The stew will expand as it freezes. Properly stored, beef stew can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your stew again, reheating is key. The best way is to heat it gently on the stove. Pour the stew into a pot and warm it over low to medium heat. Stir it often to ensure it heats evenly.
If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the stew in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short bursts, stirring between each burst, until it’s hot.
To refresh leftovers, consider adding fresh herbs or a splash of broth. This can brighten the flavors and make it taste fresh again. Enjoy your comforting dish!
FAQs
What can I serve with Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
You can serve many side dishes with beef stew. Here are some great options:
– Crusty bread for dipping
– Mashed potatoes for a creamy base
– Rice to soak up the sauce
– A fresh green salad for crunch
– Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli
These sides make the meal feel complete and add different flavors.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this stew in a slow cooker! Here’s how:
– Brown the beef first, then add it to the slow cooker.
– Add all other ingredients in the pot, just like in the recipe.
– Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
This method makes the beef tender and allows flavors to blend well.
How can I make the stew ahead of time?
Making stew ahead is easy. Here are some tips:
– Prepare the stew and let it cool.
– Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
– It can last up to three days.
– You can also freeze it for up to three months.
Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute some ingredients. Here are some ideas:
– Use chicken instead of beef for a lighter dish.
– Swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes for a twist.
– If you don’t have beef broth, vegetable broth works too.
These changes can add new flavors and textures to your stew.
How long does the beef stew last in the fridge?
Beef stew can last in the fridge for about three days.
– Make sure to store it in a sealed container.
– If you want it to last longer, freeze it instead.
It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.
Always check for any off smells or changes before eating leftovers.
Old-fashioned beef stew combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients. We discussed essential items like beef chuck, vegetables, and broth. I shared step-by-step directions for a perfect stew, tips for enhancing taste, and variations to fit your needs. Proper storage and reheating methods can keep this meal great for days.
Enjoy making your stew with your unique twist. Dive in and savor every bite!
