Step-by-step guide to making the perfect beef stew
Make the perfect beef stew. This step-by-step guide will make the process easy and enjoyable.
Our Beef stew with potatoes has chunks of softened beef and vegetables in a thick sauce.
This classic stick-to-your-ribs beef stew with potatoes is the ideal dish for a chilly weekend.
All the flavours of this old fashioned beef stew recipe come together in cosy harmony.
Our Beef stew with potatoes has chunks of softened beef and vegetables in a thick sauce.
This classic stick-to-your-ribs beef stew with potatoes is the ideal dish for a chilly weekend.
All the flavours of this old fashioned beef stew recipe come together in cosy harmony.
Ingredients
- 900 grams 2 pounds chuck steak
- 1½ tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup flour
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp marjoram
- 1 tsp oregano
- 4 large potatoes
- 4 large carrots
- 3 stalks of celery
- 1 medium onion
Instructions
- Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it's time to dive into the step-by-step process of making the perfect beef stew. While the exact cooking times may vary depending on the recipe you're following, the basic steps remain the same.
- Prepare the meat:
Dice the beef into chunks about 2.5 cm.
Put the beef and flour in a container, such as a plastic bag, and shake or squish until the beef is well-coated. - Sear the beef:
Heat some oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sear it the beef on all sides until browned.
This step helps to develop a rich, caramelised flavour. - Sauté the aromatics:
Remove the seared beef from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and celery.
Sauté until they become fragrant and slightly softened. - Deglaze the pot:
Pour in a splash of red wine, broth, or water to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
This will add extra depth of flavour to your stew. - Add the beef and liquids:
Return the beef to the pot and pour in enough broth to cover the ingredients.
Also add tomato paste plus additional seasonings like bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary at this stage. - Simmer and let it cook:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
Let the stew simmer gently for several hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavours have melded together.
Stir occasionally and adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer. - Add the vegetables:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the carrots, potatoes, and any other vegetables you're using.
These vegetables take longer to cook, so adding them earlier ensures they become tender and infused with the flavours of the stew. - Thicken the sauce (optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with some cold water and stir it into the stew.
Allow the stew to simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce has thickened. - Taste and adjust the seasoning:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavours. Remember, seasoning is a personal preference, so trust your taste buds. - Let rest and serve:
Once your beef stew is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavours to further develop.
Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting goodness of your homemade beef stew.
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Notes
Variations and add-ins to customise your beef stew
While the classic beef stew recipe is undeniably delicious, why not have some fun and customise it to your liking?Here are a few variations and add-ins to consider:
- Guinness Beef Stew:
Add a can of Guinness stout to your beef stew for a rich and robust flavour.
The dark beer adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it perfect for beer lovers. - Spicy Beef Stew:
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to your stew.
This will give it a subtle kick and elevate the flavours. - Mushroom and Red Wine Stew:
Replace some of the beef broth with red wine and add a generous amount of sautéed mushrooms to your stew.
The combination of red wine and mushrooms adds a luxurious touch to the dish. - Mediterranean-Inspired Stew:
Add Mediterranean flavours by incorporating ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs such as oregano and basil.
This variation will transport you to the sunny Mediterranean coast with every bite. - Asian-Inspired Stew:
Infuse your beef stew with Asian flavours by adding ingredients like ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and star anise.
Serve it with steamed Rice or noodles for a comforting and flavourful Asian-inspired meal.
The beauty of beef stew is its versatility, so don't be afraid to think outside the box and make it your own.
Serving and storing your beef stew
Once your beef stew is ready, it's time to serve and enjoy the fruits of your labor.Here are a few tips for serving and storing your stew:
- Serving:
Ladle the hot stew into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a pop of colour.
Serve it with fresh scones or some warm dinner rolls to soak up the flavourful sauce. - Leftovers:
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Beef stew can be kept for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the stew from drying out. - Freezing:
Beef stew freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. - Reheating:
When reheating the stew, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop.
Stir occasionally to ensure even heat distribution. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to use a microwave-safe dish and stir occasionally to prevent hot spots.
Pairing suggestions for enjoying beef stew
Beef stew is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages.Here are a few pairing suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Side dishes:
Serve your beef stew with a side of mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or fluffy rice to soak up the flavourful sauce.
You can also opt for plain or cheesy scones, which are both perfect for dunking into the stew. Additionally, roasted or steamed vegetables make a healthy and delicious accompaniment. - Wine:
Pair your beef stew with a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah.
The tannins and flavours of these wines complement the richness of the stew and enhance the overall dining experience. - Beer:
For beer enthusiasts, a hearty and malty beer like an Amber Ale or Brown Ale pairs well with beef stew.
The caramel notes and slight bitterness of these beers complement the savoury flavours of the dish. - Non-alcoholic options:
If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, consider serving your stew with a rich and creamy hot chocolate or a warm apple cider.
These comforting drinks provide a delightful contrast to the hearty flavours of the stew.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.