Homemade Beef Stew

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How to Make Homemade Beef Stew

Follow these steps to create a delicious and satisfying beef stew:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Brown Beef: Add the beef cubes in batches, searing them on all sides until browned. This step helps to develop rich flavors. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Cook Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add a little more oil if necessary. Sauté the diced onions until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base

  1. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  2. Deglaze: Pour in a cup of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  3. Return Beef: Add the browned beef back to the pot, along with the remaining beef broth, water, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

  1. Bring to a Boil: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  2. Simmer: Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

  1. Add Carrots and Celery: Add the carrots and celery to the pot and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
  2. Add Potatoes: Add the potatoes and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

  1. Prepare Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the flour with cold water to create a slurry.
  2. Thicken Stew: Stir the slurry into the stew and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your liking.
  3. Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for a few more minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Final Touches

  1. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  2. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and serve the stew hot.

Tips for Perfect Beef Stew

  • Brown the Beef Well: Don’t rush the browning step. Properly searing the meat adds a lot of flavor to the stew.
  • Simmer Gently: A gentle simmer helps to keep the meat tender and the flavors well blended.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, feel free to use them instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
  • Thicken Gradually: Add the flour slurry slowly and stir well to prevent lumps in the stew.

Variations and Swaps

Here are some ideas for customizing your beef stew:

  • Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or green beans for different textures and flavors.
  • Flavor Additions: Experiment with ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, or red wine for added depth of flavor.
  • Different Meats: Substitute beef with other meats like lamb or chicken for a different twist on the classic stew.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

Food and Drink Pairings

Here are some great options to enjoy with your beef stew:

  • Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the delicious gravy.
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
  • Red Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the hearty flavors of the stew.

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