Hearty Stewing Beef Delight: A Cozy Recipe for Any Season

When the days grow chilly or you simply crave a comforting meal, there’s nothing quite like a simmering pot of stew to warm your soul. Recipes for stewing beef unlock a world of rich flavours and tender textures, transforming humble cuts of meat into something extraordinary. This recipe combines succulent stewing beef with earthy vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping leftovers for the week, this hearty stew is your ticket to cozy perfection—let’s get cooking!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, or substitute with more broth)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the Beef: Pat the stewing beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. If you like a thicker stew, lightly coat the beef cubes in flour.
2. Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, browning each piece on all sides—about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Base: In the same pot, add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Build the Stew: Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, celery, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer Away: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the flavours meld together.
6. Adjust and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the stew isn’t thick enough, simmer uncovered for an extra 10-15 minutes. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread or over rice.

Tips

• For deeper flavour, let the stew sit overnight in the fridge and reheat the next day.
• Swap potatoes for turnips or parsnips if you’re feeling adventurous!

Recipes for stewing beef, like this one, prove that simple ingredients can become something magical with a little time and care. This hearty stew delivers comfort in every bite, making it a staple for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike. So grab your pot, let it simmer, and enjoy the delicious reward of a home-cooked classic that warms both body and spirit!