home made beef stew recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
home made beef stew recipe
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The Best home made beef stew recipe

Beef stew is a classic comfort food dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.

The dish has its roots in European cuisine, specifically in the traditional stews of France and the UK. Over time, it has evolved and been adapted by various cultures, resulting in countless variations and regional specialties.

In our household, beef stew is a beloved family favorite that never fails to bring everyone together. My kids love it because it’s a satisfying and filling meal that’s packed with nutrients.

As for me, I appreciate the simplicity and ease of preparation that this recipe offers, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. One of the things I love most about this recipe is the way it combines tender chunks of beef with a rich and savory broth, all wrapped up in a delicious array of vegetables and herbs.

The aroma wafting from the pot as it simmers on the stovetop or in the slow cooker is truly irresistible and never fails to get everyone’s appetite going.

Classic Beef Stew

Classic Beef Stew

4.7 from 1464 votes

A hearty and comforting beef stew made with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly day.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Meat

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes

Vegetables

2 medium onions, chopped
3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Gravy

2 tbsp tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
2Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3Add beef and brown on all sides for 5-7 minutes.
4Remove beef from pot and set aside.
5In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
6Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
7Add tomato paste and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.
8Stir in flour and butter to create a roux.
9Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
10Gradually pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
11Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
12Stir well to combine.
13Return beef to the pot, along with any accumulated juices.
14Bring to a boil.
15Remove bay leaf before serving.
16Ladle stew into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or dinner rolls.

🔧Equipment

Dutch oven or large pot with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking. For a spicier stew, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the thyme and rosemary.

Watch Video Of How Classic Beef Stew Works

I always keep this recipe on hand because it’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want something hearty and satisfying for your family gatherings.

And as an added bonus, this recipe is incredibly versatile: you can adjust the level of spiciness according to your taste preferences and even swap out different types of meat or vegetables if you prefer.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Stew

What type of beef is best for beef stew?

The best type of beef to use for beef stew is chuck roast, which comes from the shoulder area. This cut is perfect because it’s tender yet still retains some fat, which helps to keep the meat moist during cooking. Other good options include round or sirloin cuts, but they may require longer cooking times to achieve the same level of tenderness.

How long does beef stew take to cook?

The cooking time for beef stew can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of your pot, the heat level, and the desired level of doneness. Generally speaking, you can expect to spend at least 2-3 hours on low heat or 1-2 hours on high heat to achieve tender results.

Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make beef stew in a slow cooker! In fact, this is one of my favorite ways to cook this dish because it allows me to set it and forget it while I’m busy with other tasks throughout the day.

How do I store leftover beef stew?

Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to heat it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Can I add potatoes to my beef stew?

Potatoes are a great addition to beef stew! You can add them along with other vegetables towards the end of cooking time so they remain firm but tender.

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