Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s also surprisingly healthy? Look no further! This beef stew recipe with green beans is the perfect answer. It's a delicious and satisfying dish, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this stew is a family favorite that's surprisingly easy to make. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 cup peeled and diced potatoes
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step helps to develop a rich flavor in your stew. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, add the green beans, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Simmering the Stew
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serving
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping. This healthy meal is perfect for a quick dinner or a comforting weekend lunch.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Stew:
- For extra flavor: Use a combination of beef broth and red wine.
- Tender beef: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.
- Thicker stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, turnips, or parsnips.
- Spicy stew: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Heartier stew: Include pearl barley or other grains for added texture and nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the ingredients used. A general estimate per serving would be around 350-400 calories, with a significant amount of protein and fiber.
This delicious beef stew with green beans is a perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can create truly satisfying and healthy meals. Enjoy!