Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

As the crisp autumn air surrounds us, what could be more inviting than gathering around the family table to share a steaming bowl of Hearty Beef Stew? This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy tradition in the making. Picture tender chunks of beef, perfectly cooked potatoes, sweet carrots, and vibrant peas, all swimming in a rich, savory broth. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in comfort and warmth, making it the perfect centerpiece for any family dinner or seasonal celebration. At Zynahz, we believe in bringing families together through the joy of cooking, and this delightful stew is a testament to that mission. Get ready to create unforgettable moments with your loved ones, one delicious spoonful at a time.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Servings: 6

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 4 large carrots, sliced
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thicker stew)

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes, seasoning with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot.
2. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Deglaze the pot with red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, water, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1 hour, letting the flavors meld together.
5. Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is fork-tender.
6. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes. If a thicker stew is desired, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the pot. Simmer until the stew thickens.
7. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Ladle the hearty beef stew into bowls, serve alongside crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• For an even richer flavor, marinate the beef in red wine and herbs overnight before cooking.
• If you prefer a gluten-free option, skip the wine and use all beef broth.
• Feel free to add other root vegetables like turnips or parsnips for added complexity.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat gently on the stove.

Suggested Pairings

This hearty beef stew pairs beautifully with rustic sourdough bread, a fresh garden salad, and a glass of your favorite red wine or a hot cup of spiced apple cider.

At Zynahz, our mission is to infuse joy and creativity into every kitchen. We hope this Hearty Beef Stew Recipe has inspired you to create, share, and savor special moments with your loved ones. We’d love to hear about your cooking adventures, so don’t forget to share your results with us! Spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family, and dive deeper into the world of culinary delights by exploring more recipes on Zynahz. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to stay connected and keep the inspiration flowing. Happy cooking!