Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this Southern Beef Stew! This classic recipe is perfect for a chilly evening, a family gathering, or simply a delicious weeknight dinner. It's surprisingly easy to make, packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth – everything you need for a truly satisfying homemade meal. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, promising a delicious dish every time. Let's dive in and make some magic in the kitchen!
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
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 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 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 is crucial for developing a rich flavor and a beautiful, deep color in your stew. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Flavor
Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen the flavor of your stew.
Step 4: Combining and Simmering
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all the beef is submerged. Add the diced potatoes, 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 incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful your stew will become.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Stir in the frozen peas and corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 6: Serving
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a truly comforting and delicious meal. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights!
Tips for the Best Southern Beef Stew:
- Choose the right cut of beef: Stew meat is ideal because it's tough enough to withstand long cooking times but tenderizes beautifully.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Browning the beef in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Low and slow is key: Simmering your stew on low heat allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preference.
- Make it your own: Experiment with adding other vegetables like mushrooms, turnips, or parsnips.
Variations:
- Spicy Southern Beef Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Hearty Beef Stew with Barley: Include 1/2 cup of pearl barley along with the potatoes for added texture and nutrition.
- Slow Cooker Southern Beef Stew: Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This delicious and healthy meal is a perfect example of simple, satisfying homemade cooking. Enjoy!