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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
