Beef Stew Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prep the Beef:

1. In a bowl, combine the cubed beef, flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the meat evenly.

 Brown the Beef:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring all sides are seared. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Onions and Garlic:

1. In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until softened.

Deglaze the Pot:

1. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.

Add Flavorings:

1. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves.

Simmer:

1. Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Add Vegetables:

1. Add carrots and potatoes to the pot. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid.

Slow Cook:

1. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
2. Add frozen peas in the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Check Seasoning:

1. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serve:

1. Remove bay leaves before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
3. Serve the hearty beef stew in bowls.

Note: This stew can also be cooked in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low heat.

Enjoy this comforting and hearty beef stew on a chilly day, served with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes!