Beef Stew Recipe

Introduction:
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty goodness of a classic beef stew. With its tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, beef stew is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food that warms both body and soul. Today, I’m excited to share with you a timeless beef stew recipe that will become a favorite in your kitchen. So dust off your Dutch oven and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the simple pleasures of homemade comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the stew beef with salt and pepper, then toss it in the all-purpose flour until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the floured beef pieces in batches and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any accumulated juices. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), and add the bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beef simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Once the beef is tender, add chopped carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. If using frozen peas, add them to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
8. Taste the beef stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
9. Remove the bay leaves from the stew and discard.
10. Ladle the beef stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
11. Serve the beef stew hot, accompanied by crusty bread or biscuits for soaking up the delicious broth.

Conclusion:
With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, homemade beef stew is a true labor of love that’s worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or hosting a gathering with loved ones, this classic recipe is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor the hearty comfort of homemade beef stew. Your taste buds will thank you!