Cozy Cottage Beef Stew Soup

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
5. Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the stew has reached your desired thickness.
6. Remove the bay leaf and serve the stew hot with crusty bread.

Interesting Facts

• Beef stew is a classic comfort food dish that has been around for centuries.
• The key to a good beef stew is to let the flavors meld together and not rush the cooking process.
• Beef stew is a great way to use up leftover vegetables in your refrigerator.