This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, sweet carrots, and creamy potatoes. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
I love how the flavors mingle together as it simmers. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less fuss and more time to relax—who doesn’t enjoy that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for stews because it becomes tender as it cooks. If you’re looking for an alternative, brisket or round roast can also work well. Just ensure they are not too lean, or the stew may be dry.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, frozen carrots are a good substitute. You can also use parsnips for a different twist—just note their flavor is a bit nuttier!
Potatoes: I like using yellow potatoes for their creaminess, but russet potatoes work too. Just remember they might break down a little more in the stew. If you’re avoiding potatoes, sweet potatoes are a great option!
Red Wine: This optional ingredient brings depth to the stew. If you prefer not to use wine, try adding more beef broth, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar acidity.
How Can I Achieve the Perfectly Tender Meat in My Stew?
Getting tender beef in your stew is all about that low and slow cooking method. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by generously seasoning the beef, then coat it in flour for a crispy sear.
- Don’t rush the browning—let each piece develop a good crust. This adds flavor!
- Once all the ingredients are in, simmer at a low heat with a lid on to keep the moisture in—this is key to breaking down the meat.
- Give it enough time to cook! The longer you let it simmer (1.5 to 2 hours), the more tender the beef will become.
By following these tips, your stew will turn out comforting and delicious every time!
Beef Stew with Carrots & Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-2 inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium yellow potatoes, quartered
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting beef stew will take about 20 minutes of prep time and requires around 2 to 2.5 hours of cooking time. You’ll enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen while it simmers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Then, toss the beef in flour until well-coated. This will help create a nice crust when you sear the meat.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown all sides until deeply seared, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step is essential for building a flavorful base for your stew.
4. Add Tomato Paste:
Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes. This will deepen the flavor of your stew.
5. Pour in the Liquids:
Now, carefully pour in the beef broth and optional red wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits from the pot’s bottom—this adds great flavor!
6. Simmer the Stew:
Return the browned beef back to the pot, along with thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and flavorful.
7. Add Vegetables:
After the beef is tender, add the carrots and potatoes to the stew. Continue to simmer covered for another 30-40 minutes, until the vegetables are fork-tender.
8. Final Touches:
Once the vegetables are cooked through, remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the beef stew into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot. Crusty bread makes a perfect side for dipping!
Enjoy the warm and cozy flavors of your homemade beef stew!
Can I Use a Different Type of Beef for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal due to its tenderness, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just make sure the cut has some marbling for flavor, as lean cuts may turn out dry.
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stew a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. The flavors will deepen and improve as it sits. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems thick.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize the stew by adding other vegetables like peas, green beans, or even parsnips! Just make sure to add heartier vegetables earlier in the cooking process, and softer ones, like peas, in the last 15-20 minutes.