When the chilly weather rolls in and you crave something warm, there’s nothing better than a big bowl of Old Fashioned Beef Stew. This scrumptious dish is a comforting mix of tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and hearty broth that warms both the heart and soul. Did you know that these stews have been around for centuries? They were originally a way to stretch a meal to feed a crowd on a budget! It’s this practicality, coupled with rich flavors, that makes Old Fashioned Beef Stew a timeless classic.
What makes this dish so special is its simplicity. You can prepare it in a single pot, and most of the time is spent letting it simmer to perfection. Plus, it’s family-friendly, meaning even the pickiest of eaters will be asking for seconds. If you love comfort food like this, you might also appreciate our Easy Chicken Noodle Soup recipe, which brings that cozy feeling in a different, yet equally delightful way. Ready to make your own Old Fashioned Beef Stew? Let’s get cooking!
What is Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a hearty dish that combines chunks of beef with vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions, all braised in a savory broth. But why is it called “old fashioned”? Well, think of it as a culinary throwback to simpler times when meals were made from scratch with love and hearty ingredients. Some might say that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and if that’s true, this stew is practically a love letter in a bowl! Have you ever tried it? If not, grab your apron and let’s give this classic a whirl!
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Beef Stew
You’ll absolutely adore this Old Fashioned Beef Stew for several reasons! First, the main highlight of this recipe is its deliciously tender beef, which practically melts in your mouth after a few hours of simmering. Second, making this stew at home is a budget-friendly way to serve a wholesome meal. A few simple ingredients come together to create a feast that could feed the whole family without breaking the bank.
Lastly, you can customize your stew with flavorful ingredients like garlic, thyme, or even a splash of red wine for depth, although our version remains completely alcohol-free. Plus, if you love this stew, be sure to check out our Savory Beef and Vegetable Soup for another comforting option. So roll up your sleeves and start making this beef stew that’s sure to be a hit on your dinner table!
How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Quick Overview
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is easy to make and packed with heartwarming flavors. Simply brown the beef, toss in the veggies, pour the broth, and let it simmer! It does take a bit of time for the flavors to develop, but most of that is hands-off, simmering bliss. With preparation taking around 15-20 minutes and the cooking part around 1.5 to 2 hours, you’ll soon have a delicious, soul-warming meal.
Key Ingredients for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper. This will help to enhance the flavor.
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook for about 3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves. Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it.
- Simmer: Bring the stew to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.
- Add Veggies: Add the carrots and potatoes. Cover again and let simmer for another 30-40 minutes until the veggies are tender.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
What to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew With
Old Fashioned Beef Stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of buttery mashed potatoes. You could also serve it with a fresh green salad for a pop of color and freshness. If you want a little crunch, why not add some crisp crackers on the side? And for a delightful ending, a simple slice of pie, like apple or berry, would be a great way to finish off your meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- Cooking Time: The longer you simmer, the more tender the beef will become. Don’t rush the process!
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans. You can also substitute the beef with chicken for a lighter take.
- Preventing Tough Meat: Make sure to brown the beef properly. This not only ensures flavor but helps keep the meat tender as it cooks.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for quick meals. When it comes to reheating, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the stew thickens too much during storage, just add a little beef broth or water when reheating to restore its lovely consistency.
Now that you have all the essentials for making an outstanding Old Fashioned Beef Stew, it’s time to gather your ingredients, roll up those sleeves, and create a dish that will leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy the warmth and comfort this classic recipe brings to your kitchen!
Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Ingredients
Method
- Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook for about 3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves. Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it.
- Bring the stew to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.
- Add the carrots and potatoes. Cover again and let simmer for another 30-40 minutes until the veggies are tender.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
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