Dinner
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
This Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes is incredibly delicious. The combination of tender beef, flavorful broth, and hearty vegetables creates a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cold weather or anytime you’re craving a cozy meal. The long simmering time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and flavorful stew that’s sure to warm your soul.
Whether enjoyed on its own or served with crusty bread for dipping, this classic beef stew is a comforting and delicious meal that everyone will love.
Beef Stew is relatively easy to cook, especially with the right preparation and cooking techniques. While it does require some time to simmer and develop its rich flavors, the actual steps involved are quite straightforward.
Here are some cooking tips to help you make the most delicious Beef Stew:
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Opt for tougher cuts of beef such as chuck, brisket, or round for stewing. These cuts contain more connective tissue that breaks down during cooking, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
- Brown the Beef: Before simmering the stew, be sure to brown the beef in batches. This step adds depth of flavor to the stew by caramelizing the meat and creating a rich fond on the bottom of the pot.
- Use Low and Slow Cooking: For the most tender and flavorful stew, cook it on low heat over a longer period of time. This allows the collagen in the beef to break down and creates a velvety texture in the stew.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When browning the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook the meat in batches to ensure even browning and to prevent steaming.
- Deglaze the Pot: After browning the beef, deglaze the pot with beef broth or red wine to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds extra flavor to the stew.
- Add Vegetables at the Right Time: Add the root vegetables like carrots and potatoes halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that they are cooked until tender but not mushy.
- Seasoning: Taste the stew as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper gradually, as flavors will concentrate as the stew simmers.
- Let it Rest: Allow the stew to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the meat is tender and juicy.
By following these cooking tips, you’ll be able to make a delicious and hearty Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes that’s sure to warm your heart and soul. Enjoy!
FAQ’s
Can I use a different cut of beef for the stew?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as chuck roast, brisket, or bottom round. Just be sure to trim excess fat and cut the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! This stew can be adapted for both slow cooker and Instant Pot. For the slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For the Instant Pot, use the “stew” setting and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I freeze leftover stew?
Yes. Beef stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?
You can thicken the stew by making a slurry with cornstarch and water and stirring it into the simmering stew until thickened. Alternatively, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes to thicken the stew naturally.
What can I serve with beef stew?
Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or biscuits for soaking up the delicious broth. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Beef Stew Recipe
This hearty and comforting Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes is perfect for chilly days or cozy evenings at home. Enjoy its rich flavors and tender beef with your favorite crusty bread for a satisfying meal!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes mins
Cook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs 55 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Ingredients
- 2 pounds about 900g beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine optional
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 large carrots peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes peeled and cut into chunks
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Coat Beef with Flour:
In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with the all-purpose flour until evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Brown the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef in batches and brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Deglaze the Pot:
Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits (this adds flavor to the stew).
Add Seasonings:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the bay leaves and dried thyme. Season with additional salt and black pepper, if needed.
Simmer:
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Add Vegetables:
Add the chopped carrots and potatoes to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.
Serve:
Discard the bay leaves. Ladle the beef stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional:
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Keyword beef stew
