Alright, let's create a delicious and comforting dinner that's perfect for any evening. Beef stew is a classic, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by the whole family. Follow along for a detailed recipe, tips, and a bit of background.
Beef Stew
Story Behind the Dish
Beef stew is a timeless comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. This dish is known for its rich and hearty flavors, achieved by slow-cooking beef with vegetables in a savory broth. It's perfect for a family dinner, providing warmth and satisfaction on a chilly evening. This recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
Ingredients
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
3 large carrots, sliced
3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup frozen peas
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Beef:
Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with flour and toss to coat evenly.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the Stew:
Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 1 hour.
Add the Vegetables:
Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is fork-tender.
Finish the Stew:
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve:
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread.
Best Beverage Pairings
This rich and hearty dish pairs wonderfully with:
Red Wine: A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the deep flavors of the stew.
Beer: A dark ale or stout pairs well with the savory elements.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing option to balance the richness of the stew.
Serving Tips
Serve the beef stew in large bowls to showcase the hearty ingredients.
For added flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce over the stew before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 700mg
Enjoy your delicious and hearty beef stew! It's the perfect meal to share and savor with your family.
Additional Tips and Shortcuts
Pre-Cut Beef: Save time by using pre-cut beef stew meat available at most grocery stores.
Slow Cooker Option: Cook the stew in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Thickening Shortcut: Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the broth if desired.
Happy cooking! Let this rich and easy recipe bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table.
