Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

Introduction

This classic Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Tender beef, fragrant herbs, and tender vegetables come together in a rich broth that warms both body and soul.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 potatoes, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Toss the beef stew meat in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Step 2: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Step 3: Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Step 4: Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, red wine (if using), carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Step 5: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked.
6. Step 6: Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra depth, brown the vegetables briefly after sautéing the onion and garlic before adding liquids.
• Substitute the red wine with more beef broth if you prefer a milder flavor or want to skip alcohol.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of tomato paste for enhanced richness.
• Use a slow cooker by combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

Storage

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This stew also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?

Yes, tougher cuts like chuck or brisket work best because they become tender during the long simmering process.

Do I have to use red wine in the recipe?

No, the red wine is optional and adds depth. You can replace it with additional beef broth if you prefer not to use alcohol.

Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 116 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty and classic Old Fashioned Beef Stew featuring tender cubes of beef simmered with vegetables in a flavorful broth, perfect for a comforting meal any day.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Coating

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons flour

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 potatoes, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped

Liquids and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Toss the beef stew meat in flour, shaking off any excess to ensure an even coating which will help thicken the stew later.
2. Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes to develop rich flavor. Remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, which enhances the stew’s base flavor.
4. Add beef and liquids: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using). Then add chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
6. Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the stew hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

• Red wine is optional but adds depth of flavor; substitute with extra beef broth if preferred.
• Flouring the beef before browning helps to thicken the stew naturally.
• For a thicker stew, uncover the pot during the last 20 minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze well for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: beef stew, old fashioned stew, comfort food, hearty beef stew, slow simmer beef stew