Hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Stew: A Comforting One-Pot Classic

Instructions for Hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

• Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef stew meat in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until it develops a rich brown crust, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
• Once the beef is browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. This step adds tons of flavor to the stew base.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
• Add the celery and carrots to the pot, and cook for another 3-4 minutes. This will start to release the sweet flavors of the vegetables, making the stew even more flavorful.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine (Optional)

• If using, pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping the browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. These bits add great flavor to the stew! Let the wine simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

• Return the browned beef to the pot and stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the dried thyme and bay leaf, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed.

Step 5: Cook the Stew

• Bring the stew to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef will become tender, and the vegetables will soften, infusing the broth with all their delicious flavors.

Step 6: Add the Potatoes

• After the stew has been simmering for about an hour, add the potatoes to the pot. Continue cooking the stew for another 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the beef is fork-tender.

Step 7: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

• If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the broth thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 8: Final Taste Check

• Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if necessary. Discard the bay leaf before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Hearty Beef Stew

• Choose the right cut of beef: Chuck roast is an ideal choice for beef stew because it’s flavorful and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. Avoid leaner cuts like sirloin, which can become tough when stewed.
• Let it simmer low and slow: The key to a tender, flavorful beef stew is slow cooking. Let the stew simmer for at least 1.5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Add herbs for flavor: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley can elevate the flavor of your stew. If you’re using fresh herbs, tie them together in a bundle to make removal easier before serving.
• Make it ahead: Beef stew often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a portion of the potatoes directly in the pot or use the cornstarch slurry as suggested.

Why This Beef Stew Is So Special

Hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Stew isn’t just a meal—it’s a comforting tradition. Its rich, savory broth and tender beef, combined with the earthy sweetness of vegetables, create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s simple, yet so satisfying, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers for days.

This recipe harkens back to the classic, hearty stews that have been passed down through generations. The slow-cooked flavors and tender chunks of beef remind us of home, family, and cozy meals shared around the table.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread: A thick slice of warm, crusty bread or a buttery dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Pair with a salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the stew.
• Top with fresh herbs: Garnish your stew with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Conclusion

Hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is a beloved recipe that never goes out of style. Its deep, rich flavors and comforting nature make it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly winter evening or making it ahead for an easy dinner, this stew will always be a hit. So, grab your pot and start cooking up this delicious, one-pot meal—it’s sure to become a family favorite!