Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

  1. Season the Beef: In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear them on all sides until browned. This process locks in the juices and adds depth to the stew’s flavor.
  3. Remove the Beef: Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) or 1/2 cup of beef broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—these add immense flavor to the stew.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

  1. Add Liquids: Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine.
  2. Return the Beef: Add the browned beef cubes back into the pot, along with any juices that accumulated on the plate.
  3. Add Herbs: Stir in thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

  1. Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
  2. Check the Beef: After about 90 minutes, check the beef. It should be tender but not falling apart.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: While the beef simmers, peel and chop the potatoes, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Add to the Stew: Stir the vegetables into the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid.
  3. Cook Until Tender: Cover and simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Thickening

  1. Taste and Adjust: Remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Thicken the Broth (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the simmering stew and cook for 5-10 minutes until the broth thickens.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Serve Hot: Ladle the stew into bowls.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of brightness.
  3. Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a side of buttered rice for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew

  1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast or brisket are ideal as they become tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
  2. Cook Low and Slow: Simmering on low heat allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
  3. Don’t Skip Browning: Searing the beef adds a deep, rich flavor to the stew.
  4. Customize Vegetables: Add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for variety.
  5. Leftovers: Beef stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef stew is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth creates a dish that’s satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, this classic recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Enjoy crafting this delicious beef stew, and savor every bite!