Old Fashioned Beef Stew
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. The rich flavors and tender beef create a heartwarming dish that resonates with nostalgia. Whether you serve it on a chilly evening or during a festive occasion, this stew will surely delight everyone at the table. With its melt-in-your-mouth beef and hearty vegetables, it’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: This stew provides a complete meal in one bowl, loaded with protein and nutritious vegetables.
- Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices brings out deep flavors that make each bite satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is suitable for both beginner and experienced cooks.
- Versatile: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have at home or to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: This stew stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal planning throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering your stew evenly while allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and ensuring even cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in measuring ingredients, which is key to achieving the best flavor.
Ingredients
This Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and all the right herbs and spices.
For the Beef Stew
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
For the Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 10 ounces pearl onions
- 4 medium carrots (sliced)
- 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 cup cold water
How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Dust 2 pounds of beef stew meat with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear for about 5 minutes until all sides are browned. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant, allowing the flavors to develop.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Incorporate Vegetables
Add diced potatoes, pearl onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon granulated sugar along with dried basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and ground allspice. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Simmer
Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 90 to 120 minutes. Stir occasionally until the beef becomes tender.
Step 7: Thicken the Stew
In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until completely dissolved. Slowly pour this mixture into the stew while stirring constantly. Cook on low heat for a few more minutes until thickened.
Step 8: Taste and Serve
Taste your stew, adjusting seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot for a comforting meal!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Serving Old Fashioned Beef Stew can elevate your dining experience. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Crusty Bread
- A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth of the stew. Choose a rustic baguette or sourdough for added flavor.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Serving the beef stew over creamy mashed potatoes adds a comforting touch. The potatoes will absorb the stew’s flavors beautifully.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top before serving. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to your dish.
Accompanied by a Side Salad
- A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the stew. Include mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for freshness.
With Rice
- Serving the stew alongside fluffy white or brown rice can be a great way to balance the dish. The rice will soak up the savory broth well.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun twist, serve your beef stew in an edible bread bowl. This adds an interactive element and makes for easy clean-up!
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew
To make sure your Old Fashioned Beef Stew turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
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Choose Quality Meat: Use good-quality chuck roast for tenderness and flavor. This cut breaks down wonderfully during cooking.
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Sear the Meat Well: Don’t skip browning the beef before simmering. Proper searing creates depth in flavor through caramelization.
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Let It Simmer: Cook low and slow for optimal tenderness. Allowing the stew to simmer for at least 90 minutes ensures maximum flavor absorption.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. They will enhance the overall taste of your stew significantly.
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Adjust Seasoning Late: Taste your stew towards the end of cooking and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This way, you maintain control over seasoning levels.
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Thicken Wisely: For a richer texture, add cornstarch slurry gradually until you reach your desired thickness without making it too gloopy.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Pairing your Old Fashioned Beef Stew with complementary side dishes can round out the meal perfectly. Here are some excellent options:
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Garlic Bread: This buttery delight enhances any meal, offering crunchy texture alongside soft beef and veggies.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances out the richness of the stew, providing a nutritious touch to your plate.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add brightness and color, making them an excellent contrast to hearty stew.
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Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory beef stew, offering a delightful taste combination that’s hard to resist.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the rich flavors of beef stew, refreshing your palate.
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Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes served with butter or sour cream complement the dish while giving you another way to enjoy that delicious broth.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers a healthy option that adds texture without overshadowing the main dish’s robust flavors.
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Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can enhance your meal while soaking up all those tasty juices from the stew!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Old Fashioned Beef Stew, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using the wrong cut of meat: Choosing a tough cut like chuck roast is essential for tenderness. Avoid lean cuts which won’t hold up in the stew.
- Skipping browning the meat: Searing the beef first adds flavor and depth. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your stew.
- Overcrowding the pot: If you add too much meat at once, it steams instead of browns. Cook in batches to get that perfect sear.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste your stew before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors.
- Not letting it simmer long enough: Stewing requires time for flavors to meld. Don’t rush; allow at least 90 minutes for optimal tenderness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Old Fashioned Beef Stew in an airtight container.
- It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Old Fashioned Beef Stew that home cooks often ask.
What makes Old Fashioned Beef Stew special?
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is special due to its rich flavors developed from slow cooking and quality ingredients that create a comforting meal.
Can I use different vegetables in my beef stew?
Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like mushrooms, peas, or green beans for added flavor and texture.
How do I thicken Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
To thicken your stew, mix cornstarch with cold water and add it towards the end of cooking. This will give you a nice, hearty consistency.
What is the best side dish for Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Serve it with crusty bread or a simple salad. These sides complement the rich stew perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience of warmth and comfort. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste. Whether you stick with classic ingredients or add your twist, this stew promises satisfaction on any chilly day.
Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Old Fashioned Beef Stew, a quintessential comfort food that’s perfect for family gatherings or chilly nights. This dish features tender beef, rich broth, and a medley of hearty vegetables, all simmered to perfection. Each bite is packed with savory goodness and nostalgic warmth, making it not just a meal but an experience that brings everyone together around the table. Simple enough for novice cooks yet satisfying for seasoned chefs, this stew is adaptable to your pantry staples and personal preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes
- 10 ounces pearl onions
- 4 medium carrots
- 4 medium celery ribs
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the beef by dusting with cornstarch and seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides.
- Add minced garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant.
- Deglaze with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add chopped vegetables along with sugar and spices; stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to simmer for 90–120 minutes until beef is tender.
- Thicken stew by mixing remaining cornstarch with cold water; stir into the pot until desired consistency is reached.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
