Hearty Beef Stew – Rich, Comforting & Flavor-Packed
Make this hearty beef stew with tender beef, vegetables, and a savory broth. A rich, comforting dish perfect for cozy dinners and meal prep!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine optional, for depth of flavor
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 large carrots chopped
- 3 medium potatoes diced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch for thickening
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
- Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Take your time to chop the vegetables and cut the beef into uniform chunks. This ensures that everything cooks evenly.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Sear the beef in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pot. Brown each piece for 3-4 minutes on each side, then remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Stew Base
- Stir in the tomato paste and flour. This mixture will help thicken the stew and add richness to the broth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the tomato paste caramelize a bit.
- Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits, as these will enhance the stew’s flavor.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Simmer
- Now it’s time to add the carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring the stew to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook for 2-3 hours. The slow simmering process is key to making the beef tender and allowing the flavors to develop.