Best Ever Beef Stew is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for cold days or when you crave a rich and satisfying meal.
This classic stew features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in a flavorful broth with carrots, potatoes, onions, and herbs.
The slow cooking process allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while the vegetables soak up all the savory juices.
Whether served on its own or with a side of crusty bread, this beef stew is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and comfort with every bite.
Ingredients:
2 pounds beef stew meat
½ cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoon seasoning salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 large onion, diced
2 bay leaves
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
2 cups water
2 heaping teaspoons beef demi-glace (or beef Swanson Flavor Boost)
4 medium to large red skinned potatoes, washed & diced
3 large carrots, peeled & sliced
1 stalk celery, diced
Directions :
Shake the beef stew meat in a resealable plastic bag with the flour & seasoning salt until evenly coated.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet; add the floured stew meat to the pan & brown on all sides.
Remove using a slotted spoon or tongs & place into the bottom of a slow cooker.
Season with pepper.
Saute the diced onion in the same hot skillet for 2 minutes.
Don’t worry about cleaning it out in between – that’s added flavor! Transfer the onions into the slow cooker as well.
Pour the Worcestershire sauce, water, & beef demi glace (or Swanson Flavor Boost) into the skillet and whisk until mixed, making sure you scrape up any browned bits in the bottom of the pan.
Turn off the heat & set aside.
Add the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, & bay leaves to the slowcooker.
Now, pour the broth/Worcestershire mixture in the crockpot as well.
Cover; cook on low for 8 hours.
Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Creating a flavorful and hearty beef stew involves careful attention to ingredients and preparation techniques. Here are some variations and tips to enhance your stew:
Variations of Best Ever Beef Stew:
Red Wine Beef Stew: Add a cup of red wine to the broth for a richer, deeper flavor. The wine adds complexity and pairs well with the beef.
Herb-Infused Stew: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor of the broth.
For a Mediterranean twist, you can also add oregano and parsley.
Guinness Beef Stew: Replace some of the broth with Guinness or another dark beer for a deeper, malty flavor. This version pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes.
Vegetable Variation: Incorporate different vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or parsnips to add more variety and texture.
Root vegetables like turnips or sweet potatoes are also great substitutes for traditional potatoes.
Spicy Beef Stew: Add a little heat with diced chili peppers, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Beef Stew: For a hands-off approach, use a slow cooker or Instant Pot. These methods allow for tender beef and well-developed flavors with minimal effort.
Tips for Making Best Ever Beef Stew:
Use the Right Cut of Beef: Opt for well-marbled cuts like chuck roast or beef brisket. These cuts become incredibly tender when slow-cooked and provide great flavor.
Brown the Meat First: For the best flavor, brown the beef in batches before adding it to the stew. This caramelizes the outside and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Layer Your Flavors: Saute onions, garlic, and carrots before adding liquid. This step helps to build a rich, savory base for the stew.
Cook Low and Slow: Whether you’re using a stovetop, oven, or slow cooker, cooking the stew at a low temperature for several hours allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
Thicken the Broth: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Add quicker-cooking vegetables like peas or green beans during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
By experimenting with these variations and following these tips, you’ll elevate your beef stew to the next level, creating a comforting and flavorful meal everyone will love.