Beef Stew

Beef stew is a classic and comforting dish! Here’s a basic recipe you might enjoy:

Classic Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 4 large carrots, sliced
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, avoiding overcrowding, and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Deglaze and Add Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
4. Add Beef and Vegetables: Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours.
5. Thicken the Stew: Mix the flour with a little water to form a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cook for an additional 10 minutes to thicken.
6. Add Carrots and Potatoes: Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is fork-tender.
7. Finish with Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful beef stew!