Classic Beef Stew – A Warm and Comforting Recipe

Introduction
There’s nothing like a bowl of classic beef stew to warm you up on a cold day. With tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the beef:

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck or stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the stew:

• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional, for enhanced flavor)
• 3 large carrots (cut into chunks)
• 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup mushrooms (optional, sliced)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Beef

1. In a bowl, coat the beef pieces with flour, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and celery. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute to develop its flavor.

Step 3: Build the Base

1. Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
2. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together.

Step 4: Add the Meat and Vegetables

1. Return the seared beef to the pot.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

1. Bring the stew to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5–2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
2. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf and ladle the stew into bowls.
2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, alongside crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

• Use beef chuck for its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture after slow cooking.
• For a thicker stew, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Allow the stew to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Conclusion
This classic beef stew is the perfect way to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. With its rich broth, tender meat, and hearty vegetables, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s sure to satisfy. Try this easy recipe and treat yourself to a timeless favorite.

Call to Action
Ready to make the ultimate beef stew? Give this recipe a try and share your results in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your photos. Bookmark this recipe for your next cozy meal—it’s sure to be a hit!