Warm Your Soul: Hearty Beef Stew with Vegetables

On cold evenings, few dishes offer as much comfort as a steaming bowl of beef stew. This timeless classic combines tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth that nourishes both body and soul. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy meal at home, this stew is packed with flavor and is surprisingly easy to prepare. With a little patience and love, you’ll create a dish that’s not just food but a warm embrace in a bowl.

 

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

Serves 4-6

• 500g (1 lb) beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 8 baby potatoes, peeled (or quartered if large)
• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 

Instructions 

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
3. Add the beef to the pot in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd it, and sear until all sides are browned. This step locks in the flavor. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for 1 minute to create a roux.
2. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. The mixture will thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients

1. Return the seared beef to the pot, along with the carrots, potatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Stir to combine, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

1. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef should be tender, and the vegetables should be soft but not mushy.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
2. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it with crusty bread, buttery dinner rolls, or even over a bed of mashed potatoes for an extra dose of comfort.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

 

Hearty Beef Stew with Vegetables is more than just a dish—it’s a symbol of warmth and togetherness. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or saving it for a weeknight meal, its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a staple in every kitchen. Take the time to savor this comforting classic, and you’ll find that it’s not just a meal but a memory in the making.