Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that practically melts in your mouth? Look no further than this five-hour beef stew! This easy recipe delivers rich, tender beef and perfectly softened vegetables in a deeply satisfying broth. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend gathering. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Building the Stew
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 4-5 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender.
Step 4: Adding Potatoes and Peas
About 30 minutes before serving, add the cubed potatoes to the stew. Continue to simmer until the potatoes are cooked through and tender. In the last 5 minutes, stir in the frozen peas.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping. This delicious dish is perfect for a healthy meal and is one of the best recipes for a quick dinner.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use bone-in beef shanks or chuck roast.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, turnips, or parsnips.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it a slow cooker recipe: This stew is perfect for a slow cooker! Follow steps 1 & 2, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This five-hour beef stew is a testament to the magic of slow cooking. The long simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a truly unforgettable dish. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe, perfect for a satisfying and comforting meal any time of year. It’s one of those recipes you'll want to make again and again, a true addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.