Best Ever Beef Stew 

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat the Oil: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season and Sear: Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Working in batches, add the beef to the pot and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Incorporate Other Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base

1. Add Liquids: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), and add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Season: Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

1. Bring to a Boil: Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cover and Cook: Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally, and add more broth or water if the stew becomes too thick.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Add Peas: If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
2. Remove Bay Leaves: Before serving, remove the bay leaves from the pot.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Beef Choices: For a more robust flavor, consider using a combination of beef cuts, such as chuck and brisket.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to customize your stew with additional vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can be added at the end of cooking for a more vibrant flavor.
• Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of water to create a slurry, and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

The Best Ever Beef Stew is a classic dish that offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth, this stew is perfect for family gatherings, cold winter nights, or meal prep for the week ahead. So gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and let this delightful stew simmer to perfection. You’ll be rewarded with a warm, hearty meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy!