Traditional Beef Stew

Traditional Beef Stew Recipe from USA | Ingredients: beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, and more

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef stew is a classic comfort food that warms the soul on a cold day. This hearty dish is made with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth that simmers to perfection. It's a timeless recipe that has been passed down through generations, bringing families together around the dinner table.

History

Beef stew has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It originated as a way to make tough cuts of meat tender by slow-cooking them in a flavorful broth. Over time, different regions have put their own spin on the dish, adding unique ingredients and seasonings to create a variety of delicious variations.

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup flour
2.5 lb (1.13 kg) beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 medium onions, cut into sixths
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp tomato paste
8 cups cold water, or chicken or beef broth, homemade or low-sodium canned
6 sprigs parsley
6 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
1.25 lb (567 g) medium red potatoes, quartered
4 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 celery stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
7 canned whole, peeled tomatoes, lightly crushed
1 tbsp red wine vinegar

How to prepare

Heat oil in a cooker until the pan is hot, but not smoking.
Generously season beef with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour. Shake off any excess flour.
Sauté the meat in three separate batches, uncovered, stirring only occasionally, until well-browned. The meat should cover the bottom of the pot without layering to allow it to brown properly. Transfer the beef to a plate. Discard the oil and wipe out the pan. Repeat with the remaining two batches.
Return the pot to the stove and melt the butter over medium-high heat.
Add the onion and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 1 more minute.
Return the beef to the pot, add the water or broth, and bring to a simmer.
Using a piece of kitchen twine, tie together the parsley, thyme, and bay leaves, then add the bundle to the pot.
Season with 2 tsp salt and pepper to taste.
Close the lid and bring to high pressure. Cook for 30 minutes.
Release the pressure and open the lid.
Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, and tomatoes, then close the lid.
Bring to high pressure and cook for 6 minutes.
Release the pressure and remove and discard the herb bundle.
Stir in the vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Divide among bowls and serve immediately.

Variations

Add a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor.
Swap out the beef for lamb or pork for a different twist.
Add mushrooms or peas for extra vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef browns evenly, make sure not to overcrowd the pan when sautéing.

- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of canned.

- Adding a splash of red wine vinegar at the end of cooking brightens the flavors of the stew.

- For a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of flour with a little water and stir it into the broth before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the beef stew with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef before simmering adds depth of flavor to the stew.

- Cooking under pressure helps tenderize the meat and infuse the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option.

- Substitute sweet potatoes for red potatoes for a sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This beef stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the beef stew in individual bowls garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley. Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this beef stew with a side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon complements the rich flavors of the stew.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 450 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 38g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 5mg per serving

Vitamin A: 5700IU per serving

Vitamin C: 25mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Wheat (from flour)

Summary

This traditional beef stew is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It's a hearty dish that will keep you satisfied and nourished.

Summary

This traditional beef stew is a timeless recipe that brings comfort and warmth to the table. With tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it's a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Enjoy this classic dish on a chilly evening for a taste of home-cooked goodness.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Traditional Beef Stew. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that my mother had given me many years ago. The pages were yellowed and fragile, a testament to the countless times it had been used. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. This was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, and now it was my turn to carry on the tradition.

I remember the first time I made Traditional Beef Stew. I was just a young girl, eager to learn the secrets of the kitchen from my grandmother. She was a masterful cook, with a talent for creating delicious meals out of simple ingredients. I would watch her work her magic in the kitchen, marveling at the way she effortlessly combined flavors and textures to create culinary masterpieces.

One day, as she was preparing dinner, I asked her if I could help. She smiled and handed me a wooden spoon, instructing me to stir the pot of simmering beef stew. As I stood at the stove, inhaling the rich aroma of the bubbling stew, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. This was my first taste of cooking, and I knew that it was a skill I wanted to cultivate for the rest of my life.

As the years passed, I continued to watch and learn from my grandmother. She taught me the importance of patience and precision in the kitchen, instilling in me a love for the art of cooking. I would spend hours by her side, absorbing her wisdom and soaking up her culinary expertise.

When I was old enough to venture out on my own, I took the recipe for Traditional Beef Stew with me. It became a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would prepare for family gatherings and special occasions. Each time I made it, I would think of my grandmother and the lessons she had taught me.

Over the years, I have made some modifications to the original recipe, adding my own twist to make it uniquely mine. I have experimented with different herbs and spices, adjusting the cooking time and temperature to suit my taste. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the heart and soul of Traditional Beef Stew remains the same.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was handed down to me. It brings me joy to see others enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of this dish, knowing that it is a part of my heritage.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for my grandmother and the role she played in shaping me into the cook I am today. Her love and passion for cooking have inspired me to continue exploring new flavors and techniques, never settling for anything less than perfection.

And so, as I prepare to make Traditional Beef Stew once again, I do so with a heart full of memories and a spirit of gratitude. This dish is more than just a recipe – it is a symbol of family, tradition, and love. And for that, I am eternally grateful.