Hearty Beef Stew
A comforting and hearty beef stew filled with tender beef, aromatic herbs, and root vegetables, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes This is the star of your stew! Chuck roast becomes incredibly tender when cooked slowly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For browning the beef and building flavor.
- 1 onion, diced This adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced Fresh garlic is key to elevating the dish's overall flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth Use low-sodium broth for more control over the seasoning.
- 4 carrots, sliced Earthy and sweet, carrots add a nice contrast to the beef.
- 3 medium potatoes, diced For a hearty, filling stew. You can swap with sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste Adds richness and a hint of acidity.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme An aromatic herb that pairs beautifully with beef.
- 1 bay leaf Encourages a layered flavor profile as it simmers.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Don't forget to season generously for the best flavor!
Instructions
Sear the Beef
- In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the beef cubes, searing them until they are browned on all sides. This step adds a depth of flavor that will define your stew.
Sauté Aromatics
- Once the beef is browned, remove it and set aside. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Introduce the Rest of the Ingredients
- Return the beef to the pot, and add the tomato paste, beef broth, carrots, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to combine, making sure the beef is well coated in the tomato paste.
Simmer Away
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours.
Final Seasoning and Serve
- Once the beef is tender and the stew thickened slightly, season with salt and pepper to taste. Discard the bay leaf, and prepare to serve.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding broth if needed to maintain consistency. Try using lean beef or mushrooms for a healthier option.