Hearty Beef Stew Recipe: A Comforting Winter Classic

Beef stew is a beloved dish that can warm your heart and satisfy your hunger on chilly winter evenings. This classic recipe combines tender beef chunks with rich vegetables and aromatic herbs to create a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or cozy movie nights. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making an authentic beef stew, complete with cooking time and number of servings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) stewing beef
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 cups beef broth or stock
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Time: About 3 hours
Servings: 4-6 people

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash and chop the vegetables as specified in the ingredient list.

2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef chunks to brown them on all sides. This step helps create a rich flavor and adds color to the stew. After browning, remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.

3. Add chopped onions, garlic, and celery to the same pot and sauté until they become translucent. This typically takes about 5 minutes.

4. Return the browned beef to the pot along with tomato paste, bay leaves, fresh thyme (or dried), and a good pinch of salt and pepper.

5. Pour in beef broth or stock until all ingredients are fully submerged. The liquid should cover the meat by about 1 inch. If necessary, top up with water to reach this level.

6. Cover the pot tightly and place it on low heat for slow cooking. Allow it to simmer gently for approximately 2 hours.

7. Once the beef is tender (you should be able to easily shred it with a fork), add sliced carrots and diced potatoes into the stew. Continue cooking until these vegetables are also soft, typically another 30-45 minutes.

8. Taste your creation for seasoning adjustments before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired!

Beef stew is an excellent dish that pairs wonderfully well with crusty bread or mashed potatoes. Its robust flavors make it suitable for various occasions ranging from casual weeknight suppers to special holiday meals.

For those looking to add a bit more variety, consider adding red wine during the slow cooking process. This not only enhances the taste but also thickens the sauce slightly, making your beef stew even more delicious and satisfying!

Tips for Perfect Beef Stew

• Choose good-quality, well-marbled beef chunks for the best flavor.

• Ensure the vegetables are cut into uniform sizes to cook evenly with the meat.

• Do not overcrowd your pot; this can lead to less even cooking of the stew. If necessary, divide ingredients and cook in batches.

• Use a slow cooker or Dutch oven for an easy hands-off approach. Set it on low heat overnight if possible!

Beef stew remains one of those timeless recipes that can be enjoyed year-round but especially during colder months when you need something warm and nourishing to uplift your spirits. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, mastering this dish will bring many hours of enjoyment.