The Ultimate Beef Stew Recipe on Stove: Comfort in Each Bite

To create a recipe for beef stew on stove top that's full of flavor and texture, you'll need the following ingredients:

1. 2 lbs beef chuck – Cut into 1-inch cubes. Beef chuck is ideal for stewing because it becomes tender and flavorful after a long simmer.
2. Salt and pepper – To season the beef and the stew.
3. 3 tbsp vegetable oil – For browning the beef.
4. 1 large onion – Diced. Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.
5. 3 cloves garlic – Minced. Provides a fragrant base flavor.
6. 3 large carrots – Peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces. Adds sweetness and color.
7. 2 stalks celery – Chopped. Adds freshness and crunch.
8. 4 cups beef broth – For the base of the stew. You can use homemade or store-bought.
9. 2 tbsp tomato paste – Adds a tangy depth.
10. 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and complexity.
11. 2 bay leaves – For aromatic flavor.
12. 1 tsp dried thyme – A classic herb for beef stew.
13. 1 cup frozen peas – For a pop of color and freshness.
14. 1 cup potatoes – Peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces. Adds heartiness to the stew.
15. 2 tbsp all-purpose flour – For thickening the stew.
16. 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – For garnish.

1. Prepare the Beef

   Start by getting the beef cubes dry with your towels. This step is crucial because it helps the meat brown properly, which adds flavor to the stew. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper.
   Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure the meat browns rather than steams. Brown the beef on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics

   In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Deglaze the Pot

   To add more flavor and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This process is known as deglazing and helps incorporate those flavorful bits into the stew.

4. Build the Stew Base

   Return the browned beef and any accumulated juices on the plate to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Mix well to coat the meat and aromatics.
   Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender and quickly shreds with a fork.

5. Add Vegetables

   After the beef has become tender, add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine and ensure the vegetables are submerged in the liquid. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Thicken the Stew

   To thicken the stew, you can use a simple flour slurry. In a small bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with a few tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the stew and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the stew thickens.
   If you prefer a thicker stew, use a different method. Remove a cup of the stew’s vegetables and beef, mash them, and return them to the pot. This will naturally thicken the stew without needing to add flour.

7. Finish and Garnish

   Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes until they’re heated through. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
   >Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Garnish the stew with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Beef stew is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your stew and enhance your dining experience:

Classic with Crusty Bread

One of the most traditional and beloved ways to serve beef stew is with a side of crusty bread. A warm, hearty loaf—such as a baguette, sourdough, or Italian bread—makes the perfect accompaniment. The crusty exterior and soft interior are ideal for soaking up the rich, flavorful broth of the stew. Simply tear off a piece of bread, dip it into the stew, and savor the textures and flavors.

Over Rice

For a more substantial meal, try serving beef stew over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice acts as a perfect base, absorbing the savory sauce and adding a comforting, filling component. Choose from white rice, brown rice, or wild rice blend for added texture and nutrition. This pairing is hearty and helps stretch the stew to serve more people.

With Mashed Potatoes

For a classic comfort food combo, serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth, buttery potatoes complement the tender beef and vegetables, and the thick stew gravy mixes beautifully with the mash. This pairing creates a rich and indulgent meal perfect for cold days or special occasions. You can garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch.

With Buttery Biscuits

Flaky, buttery biscuits are another excellent choice to serve with beef stew. Their light, airy texture contrasts nicely with the hearty stew, and they are perfect for sopping up the remaining broth. You can make homemade biscuits or use store-bought ones for convenience. Either way, this combination adds a touch of Southern charm to your meal.

Over Egg Noodles

Egg noodles offer a delightful alternative to rice and potatoes: their tender, slightly chewy texture pairs well with the savory beef and vegetable stew. Simply cook the noodles according to package instructions, then serve the stew over the top. This incredibly satisfying option provides a great way to enjoy the stew’s rich flavors.

With a Simple Salad

To balance the hearty nature of beef stew, consider serving it with a light, crisp salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. The freshness of the salad complements the rich stew, adding a touch of brightness to the meal.

Tips for Success

1. Sear the Meat Properly: Browning the beef is essential for developing deep, rich flavors. Don’t rush this step!
2. Adjust Thickness: Add more beef broth if the stew is too thick. If it’s too thin, use the flour slurry or mash some vegetables as described.
3. Let It Rest: If you have time, let the stew sit for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it even better the next day.

About One Stop Halal

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