Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further! This beef stew recipe, elevated with the rich earthiness of mushroom soup, is the perfect answer. It's a delicious dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering. This recipe delivers a healthy and satisfying meal, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something comforting and delicious. It's one of those best recipes that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef: Heat 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 develop a richer flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, water, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture 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!
Step 4: Adding Potatoes: After about 1.5 hours of simmering, add the cubed potatoes to the stew. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Finishing Touches: Stir in the frozen peas (if using) during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Beef Stew:
- For a richer flavor: Sear the beef in batches to ensure proper browning. Don't overcrowd the pot.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Add other vegetables like turnips, parsnips, or mushrooms.
- Slow and low is key: Simmering the stew on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! It's a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef Stew: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Beef Stew with a Twist: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of mushroom and spinach soup for a different flavor profile.
- Hearty Beef and Barley Stew: Add 1 cup of pearl barley along with the potatoes for extra heartiness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This easy beef stew recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that don’t compromise on taste or nutrition. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, comforting, and satisfying. Enjoy!