I’ve been making this apple cider beef stew recipe for years, and it’s a staple in my household. My family loves it, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
I’ve experimented with different ingredients and techniques over the years, but this recipe remains my favorite. The combination of tender beef, sweet apples, and rich beef broth is a match made in heaven.
I’ve served it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes, and it’s always a hit. One of the best things about this recipe is its ease of preparation – simply brown the beef, sauté the onions and garlic, add the remaining ingredients, and let it simmer until the flavors meld together.
It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household too.
Apple Cider Beef Stew
4.8 from 1028 votes
A hearty and comforting stew where tender beef is braised in a rich apple cider broth with root vegetables. The natural sweetness of the cider balances the savory beef and earthy herbs, creating a warming autumn meal.
3 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
3 celery stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
👨🍳Directions
1In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add half the beef in a single layer, being careful not to crowd the pot.
3Brown the meat for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms, then transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining beef.
4Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
5Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6Pour in the apple cider and beef broth, then stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce until fully combined.
7Return the browned beef and any accumulated juices to the pot, add the thyme sprigs and bay leaves, and bring the liquid to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
8Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the stew simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
9The beef should be fork-tender and the liquid slightly reduced and thickened at this point.
10Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot, stirring gently to submerge them in the broth.
11Return the stew to a simmer over medium heat, then cover and cook for another 40 to 45 minutes until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork and the stew has thickened to your liking.
12Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves, then stir in the apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors.
13Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, then ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
For a thicker stew, mash a few of the cooked potato cubes against the side of the pot and stir them back in. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Watch Video Of How Apple Cider Beef Stew Works
This apple cider beef stew recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event.
It’s easy to make ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.
Reheating it is simple – just thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot through.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Beef Stew
Q: What type of beef is best for this stew?
A: You can use either chuck or round cuts of beef for this stew. Chuck is more tender and has a higher fat content, which makes it perfect for slow-cooking. Round cuts are leaner and may become a bit dry if overcooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can also use sirloin or top round cuts.
Q: Can I use store-bought apple cider or juice?
A: While store-bought apple cider can be used as a substitute, using fresh apple cider gives the stew a richer flavor profile. If you can’t find fresh apple cider, you can also use apple juice or even mix it with some water to create a similar flavor profile.
Q: How long does it take to cook this stew?
A: This stew is perfect for slow-cooking in a crock pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop. If you’re short on time, you can also cook it in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker. Cooking time will depend on your cooking method and the size of your pot.
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