Easy Beef Stew Recipe On Stove

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Introduction

Beef stew, a hearty and comforting dish, has been a staple in kitchens worldwide for generations. This slow-cooked creation transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for chilly evenings. The “easy beef stew recipe on stove” offers a convenient and accessible approach to enjoying this classic, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients

The foundation of a great beef stew lies in quality ingredients. Here’s what’s needed:

• Beef: 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes. Chuck is ideal due to its marbling, which renders during cooking, creating a tender and flavorful stew.
• Vegetables: 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped; 2-3 celery stalks, chopped; 1 large onion, chopped; 2-3 potatoes, peeled and cubed. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well.
• Liquid: 4 cups of beef broth; 1 cup of dry red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor); 1 cup of water.
• Aromatics: 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary.
• Thickening Agent: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option).
• Fat: 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil.
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste.

Substitutions: Lamb or even chicken can be substituted for beef. Different root vegetables like parsnips or turnips can be added. Chicken broth can be used in place of beef broth, but the flavor profile will change.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation sets the stage for a delicious stew. Begin by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Season generously with salt and pepper. Chop the vegetables into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Mince the garlic and gather the dried herbs. If using red wine, open the bottle to allow it to breathe. Tossing the beef in flour before searing helps to create a crust and thicken the stew. The flour can be added to a plastic bag, then shake with the beef so it is evenly coated.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for a flavorful “easy beef stew recipe on stove”:

1. Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Sear each side until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Saut the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pot: If using red wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
5. Add Potatoes: Add the potatoes to the stew during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking time. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional): If desired, create a slurry by whisking 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water. Gradually whisk the slurry into the stew and simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Alternatively, mash a few cooked potatoes against the side of the pot to naturally thicken the stew.
7. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Beef stew is a complete meal in itself, but it can be enhanced with a few simple additions. Serve it in a bowl with a crusty bread for dipping into the rich gravy. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a touch of freshness. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Here are some tips to elevate the beef stew and mistakes to avoid:

• Browning the Beef: Don’t skip this step! Searing the beef adds depth of flavor and creates a rich fond on the bottom of the pot. Make sure the pot is hot and don’t overcrowd it.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Simmering the stew low and slow allows the beef to become incredibly tender. Boiling will result in tough, dry meat.
• Adjusting Liquid: Check the stew periodically and add more broth or water if needed to keep the ingredients covered.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Add the potatoes towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Salt to Taste: Seasoning is crucial! Taste the stew throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
• Too much flour: If using flour to thicken, do not use too much. You will end up with gummy texture. Start with less and add more based on what you want to achieve.

Explore More Cooking Guides

The “easy beef stew recipe on stove” offers a gateway to countless culinary adventures. Its comforting flavors, adaptability to different tastes, and practicality make it a cherished dish. Cooking up some beef stew not only fills stomachs, but also fosters warmth and connection. Try this recipe at home and discover the joy of transforming simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. Find even more cooking guides and delicious recipes at foodrecipestory.com!