This Easy Beef Stew is hearty, comforting, and packed with tender beef, rich vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Itβs a simple, no-fuss recipe thatβs perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends.
π Ingredients:
- π₯© 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- π§ 1 tsp salt
- πΆοΈ 1/2 tsp black pepper
- π 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- π§ 2 tbsp olive oil
- π§ 1 large onion, diced
- π₯ 2 cups carrots, peeled and sliced
- π₯ 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- π₯¬ 2 stalks celery, diced
- π§ 3 cloves garlic, minced
- π 2 tbsp tomato paste
- π· 1/2 cup red wine (optional, or use additional beef broth)
- π² 4 cups beef broth
- πΏ 1 tsp dried thyme
- πΏ 1 bay leaf
- π§ 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- πΏ 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end)
π₯ Instructions:
1οΈβ£ Prepare the Beef:
- Toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2οΈβ£ Brown the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3οΈβ£ SautΓ© the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. SautΓ© for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
4οΈβ£ Add Tomato Paste and Wine:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Deglaze the pot with red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2 minutes.
5οΈβ£ Build the Stew:
- Return the beef to the pot. Add potatoes, beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
6οΈβ£ Simmer:
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the broth is thickened.
7οΈβ£ Add the Peas (Optional):
- Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
8οΈβ£ Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove the bay leaf and ladle the stew into bowls. Serve warm with crusty bread or biscuits for dipping.
π― Why Youβll Love This Recipe:
- Rich & Hearty: Perfectly tender beef and flavorful vegetables in a savory broth.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep work.
- Comforting & Satisfying: A complete meal in one pot.
- Customizable: Add mushrooms, parsnips, or your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
Serve this Easy Beef Stew on a chilly evening for a warm, comforting bowl of happiness! π₯©β¨π₯