Beef stew stands as a timeless classic, a comfort food that conjures up memories of home-cooked meals and cozy evenings. It’s a dish that brings people together, filling the house with its hearty aroma and promising warmth and satisfaction in every bite. This beef stew recipe is crafted with love, combining tender beef, rich broth, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered to perfection. It’s the perfect meal to serve when you want to envelop your loved ones in a culinary hug, inviting them to linger at the dinner table just a little longer.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes: The foundation of our stew, offering deep, meaty flavors and tender texture.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning the beef and enhancing its natural flavors.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To coat the beef, aiding in browning and thickening the stew.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced: For aromatic warmth and flavor.
- 3 cups beef broth: The liquid base of the stew, enriching it with a robust flavor.
- 1 cup red wine (optional): Adds complexity and richness to the broth. Can be substituted with extra beef broth if preferred.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the stew’s flavors and adds a subtle tang.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A herby backdrop to the stew’s rich flavors.
- 2 bay leaves: Adds a layer of flavor complexity.
- 3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks: Brings sweetness and color to the dish.
- 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks (optional): Adds a unique, slightly sweet flavor.
- 2-3 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks: Offers heartiness and absorbs the stew’s flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds freshness and a pop of color.