# Beef Stew

How to Make the Perfect Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef stew meat generously with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the pot in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan), and brown it on all sides. This step adds depth and richness to the stew. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the onion for about 3 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. If you like, add tomato paste at this stage and cook it for a couple of minutes to enhance the stew’s flavor.

Step 3: Add the Liquid and Seasoning

Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the beef broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Stir everything together, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot (this is where a lot of the flavor comes from).

Step 4: Cook the Stew

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together. If you want a thicker broth, you can mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the stew and cook for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

After the beef has cooked and is tender, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the stew. Stir to combine, and continue simmering for an additional 30 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the stew is rich and flavorful. Add the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking for color and freshness.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to your liking. Remove the bay leaves and discard them.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the stew into bowls and serve it hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping, or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Enjoy the comforting, rich flavors of this classic dish!

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

• Use a Good Cut of Beef: For tender beef in your stew, use a well-marbled cut like chuck roast or beef shoulder. These cuts become tender when simmered slowly over low heat.
• Let the Beef Stew Simmer: Low and slow is the secret to tender, flavorful beef stew. The longer you simmer the stew, the more the flavors meld together.
• Thicken the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with some cold water and add it to the stew towards the end of cooking.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables to your stew. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even turnips work wonderfully. You can also throw in a handful of green beans or mushrooms.
• Let it Rest: Stews often taste better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop. If you have the time, let your stew cool to room temperature, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Serve with Sides: Beef stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side of rice, or even a simple green salad for balance.

Why You’ll Love Beef Stew

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with tender beef, vegetables, and savory broth, beef stew is a meal that satisfies.
• Simple Ingredients: Despite being so flavorful, beef stew is made with just a few basic ingredients that come together to create something truly special.
• Comforting: There’s something about a big bowl of warm stew that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the ultimate comfort food.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Beef stew makes great leftovers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for several days or frozen for a convenient meal later on.

Conclusion

Beef stew is the ultimate comfort food that brings people together. It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying—making it the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly day or serve at a gathering. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth, this classic recipe is a surefire hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to make, and even better when enjoyed the next day.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of beef stew that will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!