When I think of comforting meals, beef stew always takes center stage. This dish swirls warm memories of family dinners and cozy evenings spent around the table. It’s a recipe that warms not just the belly, but those moments shared with loved ones. Now, what goes well with this easy beef stew?
Picture this: a warm, crusty baguette on the side, perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth. Or perhaps a crisp salad vibrant with seasonal veggies could balance the rich flavors. Let’s dive deeper into the world of easy beef stew and how to make it a fulfilling part of your meal.
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What is Easy Beef Stew?
Easy beef stew is a hearty dish that brings together tender chunks of meat, an array of fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth. The beauty of this recipe lies in its comforting simplicity.
You can throw everything into one pot and let it simmer until the flavors meld together. Coated with just the right spices, this stew warms you from the inside out and makes your kitchen smell divine.
The Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle. Here’s what you’ll need for your easy beef stew:
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 6 cups beef stock
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth)
- 2 pounds stewing beef, trimmed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 fresh sprig)
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 4 celery stalks, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or as needed to thicken)
- 2 tablespoons water (to dissolve cornstarch)
- 3/4 cup frozen peas (or fresh, if available)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
How to Make Easy Beef Stew
Making easy beef stew is a straightforward process. Let’s break it down step by step.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, peel and cube the potatoes, slice the carrots and celery, and cut the beef into bite-sized pieces. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Dredge the Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the beef cubes in this mixture until they are well coated. This step not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the stew as it cooks.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to crowd the pot. Brown each piece on all sides. This step enhances the flavor significantly by creating those delicious caramelized bits. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them until the onions become translucent, stirring occasionally. The aroma will fill your kitchen—this is where the magic begins!
Step 5: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to release all those tasty browned bits. This is where a lot of flavors hide. Let the wine simmer briefly to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add beef stock, rosemary, potatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything thoroughly. The combination of these ingredients will create a rich base for your stew.
Step 7: Simmer Away
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer you let it simmer, the more tender the beef will become. Stir occasionally and enjoy the aromas wafting through your home.
Step 8: Thicken the Stew
Once the beef is tender, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl. Slowly add this mixture to the stew to thicken it. You can adjust the thickness to your liking. If you desire a thicker stew, repeat this step as needed.
Step 9: Add Peas and Season
Stir in the frozen peas and dried thyme. Let them heat through for about five minutes. This adds a wonderful color and sweetness to the stew. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Your easy beef stew is now ready! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy it piping hot. A sprig of fresh parsley on top is a nice touch for presentation, but it’s optional.
Notes
Here are some sage tips from my kitchen to yours for the best beef stew:
- Allow Browning: Don’t skip browning the beef. This builds flavor.
- Quality Stock: Use high-quality beef stock for a richer taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: Season your dish throughout the cooking process to develop layers of flavor.
- Let It Rest: Stews often taste better the next day. If you can, refrigerate it overnight.
- Crockpot Friendly: If you prefer to use a slow cooker, you can brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low.
Storage Tips
Let your beef stew cool down to room temperature before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can freeze it too!
Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for about three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove until heated thoroughly.
Serving Suggestions
While beef stew shines on its own, it pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider these suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a piece of crusty bread for sopping up every drop of stew. A fresh baguette or sourdough loaf can elevate your dining experience.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad dressed in a light vinaigrette complements the richness of beef stew. The fresh greens can lighten the meal and add texture.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a delightful base for your stew. The smoothness contrasts beautifully with the tender beef.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies on the side add a touch of sweetness and are packed with nutrients. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli work great!
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickles or tangy veggies can brighten the dish. Their acidity cuts through the richness of the stew, balancing each bite.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Easy Beef Stew?
Should you find yourself missing a specific ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some substitutes that work just as well:
- Chicken or Pork: If you’re not a fan of beef, swap it for chicken thighs or chunks of pork. Both meats develop a lovely flavor when stewed.
- Vegetable Stock: For a vegetarian option, use vegetable stock and replace meat with hearty mushrooms or lentils for protein.
- Sweet Potatoes: Feel free to replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes. They provide a slight sweetness that complements the stew beautifully.
- Parsnips: For a unique twist, consider adding parsnips instead of carrots. They add an earthy flavor and an extra layer of sweetness.
- Soy Sauce or Worcestershire Sauce: If you’re out of red wine, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the umami flavor.
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 6 cups beef stock
- 1/2 cup red wine optional, for depth
- 2 pounds stewing beef trimmed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 fresh sprig
- 1 pound potatoes peeled and cut into cubes
- 4 carrots sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 4 celery stalks sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or as needed to thicken
- 2 tablespoons water or as needed to dissolve cornstarch
- 3/4 cup frozen peas or fresh, if available
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional, for added earthy flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, peel and cube the potatoes, slice the carrots and celery, and cut the beef into bite-sized pieces. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Dredge the Beef
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the beef cubes in this mixture until they are well coated. This step not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the stew as it cooks.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to crowd the pot. Brown each piece on all sides. This step enhances the flavor significantly by creating those delicious caramelized bits. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them until the onions become translucent, stirring occasionally. The aroma will fill your kitchen—this is where the magic begins!
Step 5: Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to release all those tasty browned bits. This is where a lot of flavors hide. Let the wine simmer briefly to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add beef stock, rosemary, potatoes, and tomato paste. Stir everything thoroughly. The combination of these ingredients will create a rich base for your stew.
Step 7: Simmer Away
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer you let it simmer, the more tender the beef will become. Stir occasionally and enjoy the aromas wafting through your home.
Step 8: Thicken the Stew
- Once the beef is tender, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl. Slowly add this mixture to the stew to thicken it. You can adjust the thickness to your liking. If you desire a thicker stew, repeat this step as needed.
Step 9: Add Peas and Season
- Stir in the frozen peas and dried thyme. Let them heat through for about five minutes. This adds a wonderful color and sweetness to the stew. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
- Your easy beef stew is now ready! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy it piping hot. A sprig of fresh parsley on top is a nice touch for presentation, but it’s optional.
Notes
- Allow Browning: Don’t skip browning the beef. This builds flavor.
- Quality Stock: Use high-quality beef stock for a richer taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: Season your dish throughout the cooking process to develop layers of flavor.
- Let It Rest: Stews often taste better the next day. If you can, refrigerate it overnight.
- Crockpot Friendly: If you prefer to use a slow cooker, you can brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I cook beef stew?
For best results, simmer the stew for 1.5 to 2 hours. The long cooking time allows collagen in the meat to break down, making it tender.
Can I make beef stew in a pressure cooker?
Absolutely! In a pressure cooker, beef stew can be done in about 35 minutes. Just brown the meat and veggies as directed; then cook under high pressure for 30 minutes.
What can I do to make it gluten-free?
Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the thickening. Ensure your stock and any sauces used are also gluten-free.
Can I use frozen vegetables in beef stew?
Yes! Mix in frozen veggies like peas or green beans towards the end of cooking. They heat through quickly and add nutrition.
Is there an easy way to cut down on prep time?
You can buy pre-chopped vegetables or use a food processor to speed up the chopping process. This way, you can get straight to the cooking part!
Conclusion
Easy beef stew is more than just a recipe; it’s a process that creates warmth, comfort, and connection. The beauty lies in its simplicity and heartiness. Whether it’s the middle of winter or a chilly spring day, this dish brings joy to the table.
I hope you’ve found inspiration to whip up your easy beef stew, making it a cherished addition to your meal rotations. Give it a go, and enjoy the wonderful bounty that comes from your kitchen. Happy cooking!
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Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more