When the weather turns chilly, few dishes warm the soul like a rich and comforting Beef Stew. This timeless recipe combines tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a savory broth that slowly simmers to perfection. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner, a weekend meal-prep session, or a holiday gathering, beef stew is always a winner.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through the ingredients, kitchen tools, step-by-step instructions, helpful cooking tips, variations, and even the nutritional value of this classic recipe. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to master the perfect Beef Stew and impress your loved ones.
Ingredients for Beef Stew
The best beef stew starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
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2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
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3 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
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3 celery stalks, sliced
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4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
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4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
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1 cup red wine (optional but adds depth)
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2 bay leaves
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp dried rosemary
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1 tsp paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 cup frozen peas (added at the end for freshness)
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Kitchen Tools Needed
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Large Dutch oven or heavy pot with lid
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Sharp chef’s knife
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Cutting board
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Ladle for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prepare the Beef
Pat beef cubes dry with a paper towel. Season generously with salt and pepper. Lightly coat the beef with flour to help sear and thicken the stew later.
2: Sear the Meat
olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. This step builds a deep, rich flavor. Remove browned beef and set aside.
3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in tomato paste for extra depth.
4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the red wine (or 1 cup broth if avoiding alcohol) and scrape up the brown bits stuck to the bottom—these are packed with flavor.
5: Build the Stew
Return beef to the pot. Add potatoes, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 2–2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender.
6: Add Final Touches
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in frozen peas. Remove bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7: Serve
Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Helpful Tips for Making the Perfect Beef Stew
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Choose the Right Cut of Beef – Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender after slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts, which dry out.
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Low and Slow – Patience is key. Cooking stew on low heat for hours ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef.
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Don’t Skip Browning – Searing beef creates caramelization, which builds flavor.
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Adjust Thickness – If stew is too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the pot.
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Make Ahead – Beef stew tastes even better the next day, as flavors deepen overnight.
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Freeze for Later – Store cooled stew in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Variations of Beef Stew
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Irish Beef Stew – Add Guinness beer instead of red wine.
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French Beef Bourguignon – Use Burgundy wine and mushrooms for a gourmet twist.
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Vegetable-Loaded Stew – Add parsnips, turnips, or butternut squash for extra nutrients.
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Spicy Stew – Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat.
Nutritional Value (per serving, approx. 1 ½ cups)
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Calories: 380
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Protein: 28 g
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Carbohydrates: 32 g
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Fat: 15 g
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Fiber: 5 g
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Vitamin A: 120% DV
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Vitamin C: 30% DV
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Iron: 20% DV
Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
Why This Beef Stew Recipe Stands Out
This isn’t just any stew—it’s hearty, flavorful, and adaptable. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade stew allows you to control the salt, add your favorite vegetables, and enjoy a truly wholesome meal. The blend of tender beef, creamy potatoes, and rich broth makes it the ultimate comfort dish for cold days.
Conclusion
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving something cozy, this Beef Stew recipe is a classic that never disappoints. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless variations, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into something special.
