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The Best Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe: A Complete Guide


  • Author: Freya
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

A hearty, comforting dish packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth—perfect for cozy nights!

 


Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Stew:

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 large carrots, cut into thick rounds
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for the end)

Instructions

  • Prep the Beef:
    • In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
    • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics:
    • In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Build the Base:
    • Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze the pot with red wine (if using). Scrape up browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
    • Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf.
  • Add Veggies and Simmer:
    • Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Finish the Stew:
    • If using, stir in frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Remove bay leaf before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the beef in red wine and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
  • If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few potato cubes into the broth or add a slurry of 1 tbsp cornstarch and 2 tbsp cold water.
  • This recipe freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Substitute parsnips or turnips for potatoes for a twist.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg