How to Make Delicious Beef Stew: A Step by Step Guide

Beef stew is a classic dish that is perfect for cold, winter days. Rich, hearty and satisfying, nothing beats the comforting and warming feeling of a bowl of beef stew. It is also easy to make and can be prepared in a slow cooker or on the stove top. In this article, we will share with you a simple and delicious beef stew recipe that will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To make a tasty beef stew, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into cubes
– 4 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 medium carrots, chopped
– 4 medium potatoes, cubed
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s start cooking!

1. Preheat a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

2. Add the olive oil and heat up for a minute.

3. Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

5. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

6. Add the beef back into the pot and add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, salt and pepper.

7. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil.

8. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

9. Let the stew simmer for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender.

10. Once the beef is tender, it’s time to serve your hot and delicious beef stew.

Serving Suggestion

Beef stew is best served with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top of the stew for a pop of color.

Tips and Tricks

1. Use beef chuck for a tender and flavorful stew.

2. Don’t skip the browning step as it adds a depth of flavor to your stew.

3. You can add other vegetables such as celery, mushrooms or turnips to your stew for added nutrition and flavor.

4. Make sure to let your stew simmer slowly over low heat to ensure that the beef is tender and juicy.

5. If you want to make your stew thicker, mix some flour and water together and add it to the stew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can. Follow the instructions until step 6. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours or high heat for 4 hours.

Q: How do I store leftover beef stew?

A: Refrigerate your leftover beef stew in an airtight container for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months.

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?

A: Yes, other cuts such as brisket or round steak can also be used. Just make sure that you cut them into cubes and cook them until they are tender.

In conclusion, beef stew is a hearty and delicious dish that can easily be made at home. With a few simple ingredients and this step-by-step guide, you can make a hot and comforting meal that your family and friends will surely enjoy. So go ahead, try this recipe and impress everyone with your cooking skills!