Easy Beef Stew Recipe

Beef stew is a classic dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, making it perfect for cold winter nights or any day you crave comfort food. This easy beef stew recipe combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a splash of wine for a rich and flavorful experience.

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious beef stew that will satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• Beef: 2.5 pounds chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Seasoning:
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
• Vegetables:
  • 1 pound carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
• Fats:
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 pieces thick-cut bacon, chopped
• Liquids:
  • ½ cup brandy
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 1 quart beef broth
• Herbs:
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• Finishing Touches:
  • Zest and juice of one lemon

Instructions to Follow to Cook Beef Stew

1. Prepare the Beef: Start by cutting the chuck roast into cubes. Season the beef with salt and cracked black pepper, then set aside while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Chop the Vegetables: Peel and chop the carrots into one-inch pieces. Chop the onion and halve the baby potatoes. Mince the garlic cloves.
3. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside.
4. Sear the Beef: In batches, add the seasoned beef cubes to the pot and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
5. Sauté Onions and Deglaze: Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until translucent. Pour in the brandy to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Add Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, garlic, and baby potatoes. Season with additional salt and pepper, then cook for about five minutes.
7. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Add red wine, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir well to combine.
8. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer to an oven preheated to 275°F (135°C). Cook for approximately two hours until everything is tender.
9. Finish with Lemon: Once cooked, remove from the oven and zest a lemon over the stew, adding both zest and juice for brightness.
10. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Success

• Meat Choice: Chuck roast is ideal for stews due to its marbling which breaks down during cooking.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add mushrooms or other vegetables based on your preference.
• Storage: This beef stew recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer preservation.

This easy beef stew recipe is not only simple but also adaptable to your taste preferences. The combination of flavors from searing meat to simmering vegetables creates a dish that is hearty and satisfying. Enjoy this comforting meal with crusty bread or over rice for a complete dining experience!