Perfectly Tender Beef Stew Recipe: A Hearty and Comforting Meal for All Seasons

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of rich, hearty beef stew. Packed with tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and savory broth, beef stew is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights or cozy gatherings. But it’s not just for winter—this versatile dish can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a classic recipe or tips to make it even more flavorful, this beef stew recipe will deliver the perfect combination of tenderness and taste every time.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a mouthwatering beef stew, share frequently asked questions, and provide pro tips to elevate your dish.

How to Make Beef Stew: Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck (cut into 1-inch cubes)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
3 celery stalks (chopped)
2 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
1 cup red wine (optional, or substitute with more broth)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot in batches. Brown the beef on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onions are soft and fragrant. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this adds flavor to the stew.

Step 3: Add the Liquid and Seasonings

Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes

After about an hour of simmering, add the diced potatoes to the stew. Continue to cook for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Add the Peas and Finish

If you’re using frozen peas, stir them into the stew during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the stew with fresh parsley and serve hot. Pair it with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete, comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best cut of beef for beef stew?

The best cut of beef for stew is chuck roast. This cut comes from the shoulder and has the perfect balance of fat and connective tissue, which breaks down during cooking to create melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Other good options include brisket and bottom round, though they may take longer to become tender.

2. Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, beef stew can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender.

3. Do I need to use red wine in my beef stew?

Red wine adds depth and richness to the flavor of the stew, but it’s not essential. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with extra beef broth. You’ll still end up with a delicious stew, just with a slightly different flavor profile.

4. How do I thicken my beef stew?

If you find that your stew is too thin, you can thicken it by making a slurry with cornstarch or flour. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour with cold water until smooth, then stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer until the stew thickens.

5. Can I freeze beef stew?

Absolutely! Beef stew freezes very well. Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

6. What vegetables go best in beef stew?

Traditional vegetables for beef stew include carrots, potatoes, celery, and peas. However, you can customize your stew with other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, mushrooms, or green beans. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as some vegetables cook faster than others.

7. Can I make beef stew without tomatoes?

Yes, if you prefer a stew without tomatoes, simply omit the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. You can replace the liquid with extra beef broth or a combination of broth and red wine. The result will be a slightly different flavor but still rich and delicious.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Beef Stew

Sear the Beef: Don’t skip the step of browning the beef. Searing the meat on all sides locks in flavor and creates a rich, caramelized crust that enhances the taste of the stew.
Cook Low and Slow: Stewing is a slow cooking process, and patience is key. The longer the beef simmers, the more tender it will become, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Use Quality Ingredients: Since beef stew is made with relatively simple ingredients, the quality of each ingredient matters. Use fresh vegetables and good-quality beef broth for the best results.
Make It Ahead: Beef stew is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. If you have the time, make the stew a day in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the refrigerator.
Serve with Crusty Bread or Mashed Potatoes: While beef stew is a hearty meal on its own, serving it with a side of crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes takes it to another level. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

Conclusion

Beef stew is a timeless dish that never fails to deliver comfort and satisfaction. This recipe, with its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and savory broth, will quickly become a go-to for any family meal or cozy night in. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a flavorful stew that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re making it for Sunday dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it up at a gathering, this beef stew recipe is versatile, comforting, and always a hit. Don’t forget to customize the recipe to suit your preferences and experiment with different vegetables or seasonings.