Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew for Cozy Nights

© Original Recipe By Megan May ©

Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew for Cozy Nights 🍲✨

1. Introduction

Nothing beats a warm, hearty beef stew when the weather turns cold or you’re craving comfort food. This beef stew recipe combines tender chunks of beef with aromatic vegetables simmered in a rich broth. Whether you call it an old fashioned beef stew or a classic hearty beef stew, this dish is the ultimate comfort food stew that transforms simple ingredients into a soul-warming meal. Perfect for cozy nights at home, this recipe is easy to prepare and results in meltingly tender beef in a flavorful, thick gravy. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, homemade beef stew recipe.

2. Ingredients for the Classic Beef Stew

• 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Hearty Beef Stew

Prepare the Beef

Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until all sides are golden brown, then set aside. This step creates depth of flavor for your comfort food stew.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until fragrant and slightly softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Tomato Paste and Herbs

Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another minute to release their flavors, enhancing the rich taste of your old fashioned beef stew.

Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and browned beef chunks. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Add Potatoes and Finish Cooking

About 30 minutes before serving, add the cubed potatoes to the stew. Continue simmering until the potatoes are tender and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.

4. Storage Tips for Your Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the gravy.

5. Serving Suggestions for Classic Comfort Food Stew

This hearty beef stew is excellent served over warm crusty bread, buttery mashed potatoes, or even with a side of cooked rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Pair it with a glass of robust red wine for a complete cozy night experience.

6. FAQ about the Best Beef Stew Recipe

Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?

Yes, cuts like beef chuck or brisket work well because they become tender with slow cooking. For quicker results, use beef stew meat that is already tenderized.

Is it possible to make this stew gluten-free?

Absolutely. Ensure your beef broth is gluten-free and omit any ingredients containing gluten. You can also thicken the stew with cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour.

How long does it take to prepare this beef stew?

Approximately 15 minutes of prep time and about 2 hours of simmering make this comfort food stew perfect and flavorful.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make your beef stew recipe even easier and more enjoyable, here are some kitchen tools worth considering:

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – Useful for quick reheating or crisping bread to serve alongside your stew.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Perfect for browning meat and sautéing vegetables.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Great for additional meal prep or quick side dishes.

8. Tips for Perfecting Your Classic Beef Stew

• Use a good quality beef broth for a richer flavor.
• Allow the stew to simmer gently; high heat can toughen the meat.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the final 10 minutes of cooking.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

9. Conclusion

This easy old fashioned beef stew is the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul and delights your taste buds. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful, tender, and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this hearty beef stew is sure to become a staple in your cozy nights menu. Prepare, savor, and enjoy the true essence of classic comfort food!

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