Are you craving a hearty, warming meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Beef Stew with Mushrooms recipe is the perfect answer for a cozy night in or a satisfying family dinner. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this version delivers big on flavor without sacrificing simplicity. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. This easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
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
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the Beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms have released their moisture.
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Deglaze the Pot: If using red wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds depth of flavor to your stew. If omitting wine, proceed directly to the next step.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
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Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering stew and cook for another 5 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.
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Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious beef stew with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Stew:
- Use a good quality beef stew meat: This will make a significant difference in the final flavor and texture.
- Don't overcrowd the pot when browning the beef: This will ensure proper browning and prevent steaming.
- Low and slow is key: Allowing the stew to simmer gently for a longer period will result in incredibly tender beef.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking before serving.
Variations:
- Add potatoes: Include 1 lb of peeled and cubed potatoes during the last hour of cooking.
- Use different mushrooms: Experiment with other types of mushrooms like shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or peas.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This beef stew recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are easy to prepare. Enjoy this delicious dish, perfect for a comforting and satisfying dinner. It’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills and offers a delightful twist on classic food recipes. Remember to adapt it to your taste and preferences—the possibilities are endless!