Introduction
Best Ever Beef Stew is the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. This hearty dish features tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection with a flavorful blend of vegetables, herbs, and spices. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich, savory broth that is both nourishing and delicious.
Ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this stew is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs, making it a perfect way to use up what you have on hand. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of comfort that will warm your heart and soul!
Ingredients
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 cups carrots, sliced
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Directions
Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, celery, tomato paste,
Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
Simmer the Stew:
Let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.
Add Peas and Thicken (Optional):
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Method of Storage
To keep your Best Ever Beef Stew fresh and flavorful, follow these storage guidelines:
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
Allow the stew to cool to room temperature after cooking.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Freezing:
Prepare for Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, let the stew cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags, leaving some space for expansion.
The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Stovetop: Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the stew has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
For the best flavor, reheat and serve the stew with fresh bread or over rice.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an added touch.
By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your Best Ever Beef Stew while keeping it fresh and delicious for days to come!