There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Old Fashioned Beef Stew to bring comfort on a chilly day. This classic dish combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich broth. The flavors meld beautifully over time, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also versatile and allows you to incorporate your favorite seasonal vegetables. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making this stew can easily become part of your weekly cooking routine. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your cravings after a long day, this Old Fashioned Beef Stew will surely deliver satisfaction in every bite. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the delightful process of creating this beloved dish from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Comforting and Hearty: This stew provides warmth and satisfaction that is perfect for cold weather or any time you need a comforting meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep work, anyone can make this delicious dish without stress.
• Great for Meal Prep: This stew freezes well, making it an excellent option for preparing in advance and enjoying later.

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Ingredients for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Chuck Roast: Choose about 2-3 pounds of well-marbled chuck roast for the best flavor and tenderness after cooking.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness; cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes; they hold their shape well while adding heartiness to the stew.
• Onions: A large onion adds depth to the flavor; chop it finely before adding it to the pot.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma; use about three cloves for optimal taste.

For the Broth:

• Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth so you can control salt levels while ensuring rich flavor.
• Tomato Paste: A couple of tablespoons add richness; choose high-quality tomato paste for better results.

For Seasoning:

• Dried Thyme: This herb complements the beef beautifully; use about one teaspoon for flavor enhancement.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by cutting the beef chuck roast into bite-sized cubes; season generously with salt and pepper. Chop all vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, brown the meat in batches until golden brown on all sides; this step adds depth of flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Remove browned meat from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add onions and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant, about three minutes.

Step 4: Build the Stew Base

Return the meat to the pot along with carrots and potatoes. Stir in tomato paste followed by dried thyme and pour in enough beef broth to cover everything by about an inch.

Step 5: Simmer Slowly

Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover partially with a lid and let simmer gently for about two hours until meat is tender.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once done cooking, adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot alongside crusty bread or over rice for an enjoyable meal.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Cut Uniformly: Ensure all ingredients are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly throughout the simmering process.
• Searing Meat: Don’t skip browning the meat as it locks in flavors that create a richer overall taste.
• Add Herbs Wisely: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley towards the end of cooking for brightening flavors without overpowering them.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can chop vegetables and brown the beef a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook.
• Storing: Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it, where it can last for up to three months. Make sure to label the container with the date.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the stew in a pot over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 10-15 minutes). Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered bowl for about 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Suggestions for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Choose the Right Cut of Meat

Selecting the right cut of meat is crucial when making an Old Fashioned Beef Stew. Opt for tougher cuts like chuck roast or brisket, which become tender during long cooking times. Avoid using lean cuts, as they can dry out and lack flavor. The ideal cuts have enough fat and connective tissue to break down during simmering, resulting in a rich broth and succulent beef. Always trim excess fat but leave some for flavor. Choosing the right meat ensures your stew will be hearty and satisfying.

Don’t Skimp on Browning the Meat

Browning the beef before adding it to the stew is essential for developing deep flavors. When you skip this step, your stew may lack that rich, savory profile that makes it so comforting. Sear the meat in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, allowing a crust to form on each piece. This caramelization enhances the overall taste of your Old Fashioned Beef Stew. Remember to deglaze the pan with broth or wine after browning; this captures those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Use Fresh Herbs and Spices

Using fresh herbs and spices elevates your Old Fashioned Beef Stew significantly. Dried herbs can lose potency over time, so opt for fresh varieties whenever possible. Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves work wonderfully in this dish. While they add complexity, avoid overwhelming your stew with too many flavors. Balance is key—stick to one or two fresh herbs along with salt and pepper for seasoning. Add delicate herbs like parsley just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor.

Don’t Rush the Cooking Time

Patience is vital when preparing an Old Fashioned Beef Stew. Cooking it too quickly can result in tough meat and underdeveloped flavors. Allow it to simmer gently over a low heat for at least two hours or until the beef is fork-tender. During this time, consider adding vegetables like carrots and potatoes halfway through cooking. This way, they retain their texture without becoming mushy. Slow cooking develops layers of flavor that make your stew truly unforgettable.

FAQs

What are the best vegetables for Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

When making an Old Fashioned Beef Stew, it’s essential to choose hearty vegetables that can withstand long cooking times without losing their texture or flavor. Carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery are traditional choices that add depth and sweetness to the dish. You can also include parsnips or turnips for additional layers of flavor. Always cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking; larger pieces take longer to soften while smaller ones may become mushy.

How do I thicken my Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Thickening an Old Fashioned Beef Stew can enhance its texture and make it more satisfying. One popular method is to use a flour or cornstarch slurry; mix equal parts of flour or cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stir it into the simmering stew about 30 minutes before finishing cooking. Alternatively, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot for a natural thickening agent without altering flavor significantly.

Can I make Old Fashioned Beef Stew in advance?

Yes! Making your Old Fashioned Beef Stew in advance is a great idea for enhancing flavors as they meld together over time. Prepare it up to three days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on low heat until warmed through; you may need to add a splash of broth if it thickens too much during storage. The stew’s flavors become richer after sitting overnight.

What should I serve with Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Old Fashioned Beef Stew pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its richness and heartiness. Consider serving crusty bread or dinner rolls for soaking up that delicious gravy—a must-have! A simple green salad offers a refreshing contrast while enhancing overall meal balance with crispness and crunchiness. If you want something warm alongside it, creamy mashed potatoes elevate comfort food levels even higher while absorbing sauce magnificently.

Conclusion

In summary, creating a delightful Old Fashioned Beef Stew requires attention to detail from selecting ingredients to mastering cooking techniques. Choose cuts like chuck roast for tenderness while avoiding lean meats that may dry out during cooking. Browning the meat builds flavor complexity that elevates your dish significantly along with using fresh herbs instead of dried ones for optimal taste enhancement.

Patience matters; slow-cooked stews develop deeper flavors through time spent simmering gently on low heat rather than rushing through preparation steps hastily! Finally, don’t forget about perfect pairings—serve alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad—and enjoy every bite of this comforting classic!

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Beef Stew

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. This classic recipe features tender chunks of beef simmered with hearty vegetables in a rich, savory broth. The flavors develop beautifully over time, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that warms both the heart and soul. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this stew is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to accommodate seasonal veggies or your favorite additions. Serve it alongside crusty bread or over rice for an unforgettable dining experience that brings everyone together.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2–3 lbs beef chuck roast
• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 3 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cut the beef into bite-sized cubes and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meat in batches until golden on all sides; remove from pot.
3. Sauté onions and garlic in the same pot until softened.
4. Return beef to the pot along with carrots and potatoes. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, and enough broth to cover ingredients by about an inch.
5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for about 2 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Adjust seasoning before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley just before serving.- Customize your stew by including other vegetables like peas or green beans during the last half hour of cooking.