Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

There's something magical about the smell of Old-Fashioned Beef Stew simmering on the stove, filling your kitchen with warmth and savory aromas. This hearty classic is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chunks of beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth.

I first fell in love with this recipe during a chilly winter evening at my grandmother's house. Her stew, bubbling away in a heavy pot, was always the highlight of the season. It’s now a staple in my home, and I'm thrilled to share it with you. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.

Why You'll Love This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Get ready to embrace a cozy, soul-warming meal that’s as comforting as a favorite blanket on a cold day. This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew isn’t just a dish – it’s an experience.

First, the tender chunks of beef are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. After slow simmering, they become so soft, they practically fall apart with every bite.

It’s also a one-pot wonder. With everything from meat to vegetables cooked together, cleanup is a breeze – perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

What sets this stew apart is its rich, layered flavor. A blend of aromatic herbs, earthy vegetables, and savory beef broth creates a depth that tastes like it’s been passed down for generations.

Finally, it’s incredibly versatile and budget-friendly. You can adjust the vegetables to suit what you have on hand, making it as flexible as it is delicious.

Ready to create a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl? Let’s get started with the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a key role in building its signature flavor. Here's a closer look at what you'll need:

• Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for stews, thanks to its marbling and tenderness when cooked low and slow. Cut it into uniform cubes for even cooking.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to for their creamy texture and ability to hold up in stews. Peel them for a traditional feel or leave the skins on for added rustic charm.
• Carrots: Sweet and vibrant, carrots bring color and natural sweetness. Cut them into thick slices to ensure they don’t overcook.
• Onions and Garlic: These aromatics lay the flavor foundation. Dice the onions finely and mince the garlic for even distribution throughout the stew.
• Tomato Paste: A small amount of tomato paste adds depth and a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
• Beef Broth: Use a high-quality broth or stock for the best flavor. For an extra hearty option, consider homemade beef stock.
• Fresh Herbs: Bay leaves, thyme, and parsley are the traditional choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

Special Equipment: A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is essential for even cooking and achieving that perfect stew texture.

How to Make This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Crafting this delicious Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is as rewarding as the first bite. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Brown the Beef: Start by heating a drizzle of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Pat the beef chunks dry and season them with salt and pepper. Sear the pieces in batches, ensuring a golden crust on all sides. This step locks in the flavor.
2. Build the Base: Remove the beef and sauté the onions and garlic in the same pot. Stir in the tomato paste and cook until it darkens slightly, releasing its rich aroma.
3. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in a splash of red wine or a bit of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up the browned bits. Add the seared beef, remaining broth, and herbs. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Vegetables: About an hour into simmering, toss in the potatoes and carrots. Cover and let everything cook together until the vegetables are tender and the beef is fork-tender.
5. Thicken the Stew: If the stew is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the pot. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes to thicken.

This stew takes about 2-2.5 hours to reach perfection. The result? A hearty, deeply flavorful dish that’s worth every minute of patience.

Storage Options

This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is just as delightful the next day, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. Here's how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Store the cooled stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months.

When reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

• Swap the Protein: Substitute beef with lamb or even chicken thighs for a different twist on the classic.
• Add More Veggies: Turnips, parsnips, or mushrooms are excellent additions for extra depth and variety.
• Try a Different Base: If you’re out of beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable stock will work in a pinch, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth and tomato paste are gluten-free, and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
• Add a Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a subtle heat that complements the hearty flavors.

Feel free to experiment – that’s part of the fun with a timeless dish like this one.

Nothing beats the feeling of sharing a bowl of Old-Fashioned Beef Stew with loved ones. Its hearty ingredients and nostalgic flavors make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Let me know how yours turns out – and don’t forget to savor every spoonful!

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