Hearty Vegetable and Beef Stew Recipe

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the pot in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) or 1 cup of the beef broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, adding extra flavor to the stew.
4. Simmer the Stew: Return the beef to the pot. Add the remaining beef broth, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. Add the Vegetables: After about an hour of simmering, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the stew. Cover and continue to simmer until the vegetables are cooked through and tender, about 30 minutes.
6. Finish with Peas and Seasoning: Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with warm crusty bread for the perfect meal.

Tips for Success:

• Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier preparation, you can make this in a slow cooker. Sear the beef and sauté the onions before transferring everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Customize: Feel free to add vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Conclusion:

This Hearty Vegetable and Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and will warm you from the inside out on chilly days. Try this recipe today, and you’ll have a new go-to for those times when you need a big, hearty meal!