If you’re looking for a rich, hearty, and delicious meal, this Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew is the perfect choice. Packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this stew is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family meal or making a large batch for leftovers, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Hearty: A perfect combination of tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and green beans in a flavorful broth.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- One-Pot Meal: Easy cleanup and minimal effort for a delicious homemade stew.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- Customizable: Swap vegetables or adjust seasoning to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed and halved
- 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
- Remove beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Stir in beef broth and tomato paste, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 4: Add Root Vegetables
- Add carrots and potatoes to the pot.
- Continue simmering, covered, for 45 minutes.
- If the stew becomes too thick, add water or extra broth as needed.
Step 5: Finish with Remaining Vegetables
- Stir in green beans and mushrooms.
- Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until all vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Season and Serve
- Remove bay leaves.
- Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Beef and Vegetable Stew
- Use Quality Beef: Beef chuck roast is ideal for stew because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Sear the Meat Well: Browning the beef properly enhances the depth of flavor.
- Simmer Slowly: Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Let It Rest: The stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.
- Thicken the Broth: For a richer consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
FAQs About Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew
1. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze beef stew?
Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What other vegetables can I add?
You can customize the stew by adding peas, celery, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
5. How can I make this stew gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use a gluten-free beef broth if needed.
Conclusion
This Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any time of the year. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this stew is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warm, homemade goodness!