Timeless Beef Stew with a French Twist Recipe Delight

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 leaf bay leaf
• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 cup watercress, washed and chopped
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning each side for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and green beans, mixing well with the onions and garlic.
4. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged. Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped watercress and Dijon mustard for a hint of flavor and freshness.
7. Remove the bay leaf before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.