Beef Stew

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Stew:
  • 🥩 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 🌾 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 🧂 Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 🧈 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 🧅 1 large onion, diced
  • 🥕 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 🥔 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 🥔 1 parsnip, peeled and sliced
  • 🍷 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 🥣 4 cups beef broth
  • 🌿 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 🌱 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 🌿 1 bay leaf

🍳 Instructions

Prepare the Beef
  1. Season and Dredge:
    • Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Sear the Beef:
    • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
  1. Cook the Aromatics:
    • In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the Root Vegetables:
    • Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and parsnip. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Build the Stew
  1. Deglaze with Wine:
    • Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
  2. Combine Ingredients:
    • Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
  3. Simmer:
    • Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Finish the Dish
  1. Season and Serve:
    • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

💡 Tips and Variations

  • 🌿 Herbal Upgrade: Add fresh rosemary for an earthy aroma.
  • 🧄 Garlic Lover’s Twist: Double the garlic for a more robust flavor.
  • 🍷 Non-Alcoholic Option: Replace wine with additional beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
  • 🥬 Greens Addition: Add kale or spinach in the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.

🍹 Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food. A side of green beans or a simple salad pairs beautifully with this dish.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Beef Stew with Root Vegetables is the definition of cozy comfort food. The tender beef, rich broth, and hearty vegetables come together to create a soul-warming meal, perfect for chilly nights or family dinners.

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