Classic Comfort: Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

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Classic Comfort: Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
120 mins
Total Time:
140mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 06, 2023

This old-fashioned beef stew is the ultimate comfort food. Tender chunks of beef are simmered in a rich and flavorful broth along with a medley of vegetables. The result is a delicious and comforting stew that will warm you up on a cold winter's day. It's easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 cup frozen peas

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with the flour until well coated.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  4. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  5. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
  6. After 1 hour, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Cover and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Stir in the frozen peas and continue to simmer for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
  8. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
  9. Serve the old-fashioned beef stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Interesting Facts

  • Old-fashioned beef stew is a classic American dish that dates back to pioneer times.
  • Traditionally, beef stew was cooked over an open fire in a cast iron pot.
  • The long, slow cooking process helps to tenderize the beef and develop a rich flavor.
  • This recipe can easily be made ahead of time and reheated for an even more flavorful stew.