Here’s a classic hearty beef stew recipe — rich, comforting, and perfect for any day 🍲🥩
Classic Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1–2 inch cubes
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3–4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can replace with more broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
- 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Season beef with salt and pepper.
- Sear beef: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches; remove and set aside.
- Cook vegetables: In the same pot, add remaining oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes.
- Deglaze: Pour in wine or a little broth to scrape up browned bits.
- Combine ingredients: Return beef to pot, add carrots, potatoes, broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Simmer: Cover and cook on low heat for 2–3 hours until beef is tender.
- Thicken stew (optional): Mix 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch with ¼ cup water; stir into stew and cook 5–10 minutes until thickened.
- Add peas during the last 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Tips
- Use chuck roast for tender, flavorful beef
- Add mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips for extra depth
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice
If you want, I can give a slow-cooker version or a classic Irish stew version that’s slightly different and just as hearty.
