Beef stew is a delicious, hearty comfort food that is perfect for cold weather days. The dish is made with tender beef, vegetables, and a savory broth, making it both filling and satisfying. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make beef stew.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs stew meat (beef)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 3 carrots, chopped
– 3 stalks of celery, chopped
– 3 potatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef to the pot and brown on all sides. This should take between 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the beef is browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside.
4. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
5. Add the red wine to the pot and scrape the bottom to release any brown bits stuck to the bottom.
6. Add the beef broth, carrots, celery, potatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Stir everything together and bring the pot to a boil.
8. Once boiling, turn the heat down to low and let the stew simmer for 2-3 hours.
9. Check on the stew every 30 minutes and give it a stir.
10. Once the vegetables are soft and the meat is tender, the stew is ready to serve.
FAQs:
1. Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make beef stew in a slow cooker. Simply brown the beef, sauté your onions and garlic, and add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and the vegetables are soft.
2. Can I use beef broth or chicken broth?
While beef broth is the traditional choice for beef stew, you can use chicken broth if you prefer or don’t have beef broth on hand.
3. How do I thicken beef stew?
To thicken your beef stew, mix together 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of water. Once you have mixed it together, add it to your stew and let it simmer for a few minutes. The stew should thicken up nicely.
4. Can I freeze beef stew?
Yes, you can freeze beef stew. Let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
5. What are some other vegetables I can add to beef stew?
You can add a variety of vegetables to your beef stew. Some popular choices include peas, mushrooms, green beans, and corn. Just be sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly with the other ingredients.
In conclusion, beef stew is so easy to make and perfect for a cold winter day. Once you have made this recipe a few times, you can adjust it to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s a delicious and hearty meal that everyone is sure to enjoy.