Hearty Beef Stew with Vegetables for Ultimate Comfort Food

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Hearty Beef Stew with vegetables is a dish that embodies warmth and comfort, especially during chilly days. This recipe features tender chunks of stewing beef simmered to perfection with fresh vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s easy to prepare and delivers a satisfying meal for the entire family. The delightful blend of ingredients makes this stew a go-to comfort food that you can enjoy with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef Stew with

This hearty beef stew recipe is a favorite for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting, making it perfect for winter nights. Second, the rich flavors from the beef and vegetables create a robust taste that warms the soul. Third, it’s a one-pot meal, simplifying cleanup. Fourth, the ingredients are easy to find, making it accessible for all home cooks. Fifth, it’s versatile; you can add your favorite vegetables or spices to create your own version. Lastly, this dish is perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you have delicious leftovers throughout the week. You’ll find that this is a traditional beef stew that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Hearty Beef Stew with

Gather these items:

2 pounds stewing beef, trimmed and cubed
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil (more as needed)
1 onion, chopped
6 cups beef broth
½ cup red wine (optional)
1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 carrots, cut into 1 inch pieces
4 ribs celery, cut into 1 inch pieces
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 sprig fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons cornstarch (or as needed)
2 tablespoons water (or as needed)
¾ cup peas

How to Make Hearty Beef Stew with Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the stewing beef cubes in this flour mixture, coating them evenly.
Step 2: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Shake off excess flour from the beef cubes and brown them in batches to avoid overcrowding, turning to get a golden crust. Remove browned beef and set aside.
Step 3: Add chopped onions to the pot, adding more olive oil if needed. Cook the onions for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften and become translucent.
Step 4: Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits for extra flavor.
Step 5: Return the browned beef to the pot along with potatoes, carrots, celery, tomato paste, and rosemary. Stir well, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or up to 90 minutes, until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked.
Step 6: Mix cornstarch and water in equal parts to create a slurry. Bring the stew to a gentle boil and slowly whisk in the slurry, stirring continuously until the stew thickens to your desired consistency. Use more slurry if you prefer a thicker broth.
Step 7: Stir in the peas and simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Step 8: Ladle the hot beef stew into bowls and enjoy immediately for a comforting meal.

Hearty Beef Stew with Vegetables for Ultimate Comfort Food - Hearty Beef Stew with - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Hearty Beef Stew with

Keep these in mind:

Allow the beef to sear properly for maximum flavor.
Don’t rush the simmering process; this is key for tender meat.
Use quality beef broth for a richer taste.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables for added variety and nutrition.
Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves for an extra flavor boost.
This dish is best made ahead of time, as it develops more flavor overnight.

Best Ways to Serve Hearty Beef Stew with

Hearty beef stew pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the savory broth.
Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Try it over creamy mashed potatoes for an indulgent twist.

How to Store and Reheat Hearty Beef Stew with

To store leftover stew, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals. This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Beef Stew with

What is hearty beef stew?

Hearty beef stew is a comforting dish made with chunks of beef, vegetables, and broth, simmered together for rich flavor. It’s a favorite for cozy meals.

Can I make hearty beef stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve for a satisfying dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with hearty beef stew?

Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning the beef, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. Also, be patient during the simmering process for tender meat!

Variations of Hearty Beef Stew with You Can Try

There are several delicious variations you can explore with this stew:

Add different root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a unique flavor profile.
Substitute the beef with chicken for a lighter option.
Incorporate spices like paprika or cumin for an international twist.
Make a vegetarian version by using mushrooms and lentils instead of beef.