Classic Homemade Beef Stew Recipe That Warms the Soul

Introduction
Nothing beats the rich aroma of homemade beef stew simmering on the stove. With chunks of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a deeply savory broth, this dish is a must-have for family dinners or chilly evenings. Follow this simple guide to create a classic beef stew that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:
  • 600g beef brisket or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 large carrots, cut into rounds
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups beef stock or broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato puree
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Spices and Herbs:
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp dried rosemary or thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
• Optional:
  • ½ cup red wine for a richer flavor

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Lightly coat the beef pieces in flour and shake off excess.
3. Sear the beef until golden brown on all sides. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

1. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Stir in the tomato puree, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth

1. Return the seared beef to the pot.
2. Add carrots, potatoes, and peas. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and (optional) red wine.
4. Add salt, pepper, paprika, rosemary, and the bay leaf.

Step 4: Slow Simmer

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 2 hours.
2. Stir occasionally and ensure the beef becomes tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Discard the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions
Pair your beef stew with crusty bread, buttery mashed potatoes, or steamed rice for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple green salad.

Tips for a Perfect Stew

• For extra flavor, marinate the beef in a mix of garlic, rosemary, and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking.
• To thicken the stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Always let the stew rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Conclusion
This classic beef stew recipe is as comforting as it gets, packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor. Perfect for meal prepping or enjoying fresh, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Try it tonight, and let us know how it turned out in the comments!

Meta Description:
“Discover the classic homemade beef stew recipe! Packed with tender beef, hearty veggies, and rich flavors, it’s the ultimate comfort dish for any occasion.”