Ah, the delightful aroma of an old-fashioned beef stew bubbling away on a chilly evening! This recipe holds a special place in my heart (and belly). I can fondly recall my grandmother standing by the stove for hours, stirring her stew while sharing laughter and stories. It’s a dish that warms not just the stomach but also the soul. There’s something about those tender pieces of beef mingling with hearty vegetables and rich broth that feels like a big hug on a plate.
I’ve made this stew countless times, and it never fails to impress—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an outdoor gathering. The best part? You can easily tweak it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Let’s dive into what makes this Old Fashioned Beef Stew so irresistible!
What’s in Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Beef Chuck: The star of the show! This cut is perfect for stews as it becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. Always go for well-marbled pieces for flavor.
Olive Oil: I love using extra-virgin olive oil for its robust flavor when searing the meat. It’s a great choice for a healthy fat!
Large Onion: Adds sweetness and depth. You can’t go wrong with good ol’ yellow onions, but feel free to get creative with shallots for a milder taste.
Garlic: Just a few cloves of minced garlic elevate the stew to another level. Because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better!
Carrots: These orange beauties add a sweet crunch to the mix. Slicing them a bit thicker helps them hold their texture during cooking.
Potatoes: Who doesn’t love potatoes? Diced potatoes make the stew heartier and soak up all those delicious flavors.
Beef Broth: A solid base for your stew. I typically use low-sodium broth, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade broth is the way to go!
Red Wine: Optional, but oh-so-good! A splash of red wine adds depth and a hint of acidity that brightens the stew.
Tomato Paste: Just a couple tablespoons help to enrich the stew’s flavor. It adds a nice umami boost.
Dried Thyme and Rosemary: These herbs bring warmth and a touch of earthiness. Dried works perfectly fine, but fresh herbs can also be an amazing option!
Bay Leaf: A single bay leaf adds another layer of flavor. Just don’t forget to fish it out before serving!
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning, but essential. Adjust according to your taste.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end brightens up the dish visually and adds a pop of freshness.
Is Old Fashioned Beef Stew Good for You?
Absolutely! While this hearty dish comforts the soul, it also packs in some health benefits.
Beef: Loaded with protein and essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, beef is a great source for energy and muscle health.
Vegetables: You’re getting a good amount of vitamins and fiber from the carrots and potatoes, contributing to overall well-being.
The main concern? Well, it’s definitely on the richer side, so enjoy in moderation, especially if you’re watching your caloric intake. Also, if you’re sensitive to salt, keep an eye on how much you add, particularly if you’re using store-bought broth.
Ingredients List
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 carrots, sliced
– 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe yields about 6-8 servings, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying leftovers throughout the week!
How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, mixing it well with the onions and garlic.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot and add the beef broth and red wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender, stirring occasionally.
7. Once the stew is cooked, remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your hearty meal!
A Hearty Serving Suggestion
If you’re feeling a bit fancy, serve it alongside some crusty homemade bread for dipping! You can also pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal. And of course, don’t forget a nice glass of red wine to complement your stew—it’s practically a match made in culinary heaven!
I hope you get to try this Old Fashioned Beef Stew soon, my friend! It’s the perfect remedy for chilly evenings and is sure to create beautiful memories around your dining table. If you do, I’d absolutely love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
