Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed beef and brown it for about 5-7 minutes on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in a splash of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the remaining beef broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Best ways to enjoy it
Beef stew shines on its own but can be paired with various sides for an extra special meal. Serve it with fresh crusty bread or homemade biscuits to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables also makes a great complement to balance out the richness of the stew.
For a rustic touch, consider serving it in shallow bowls or oversized mugs, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to elevate the presentation.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers are a fantastic perk of making this delicious dish! To keep your beef stew fresh, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months—just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as the stew will expand when frozen.
To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If you’ve frozen it, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider browning the beef a little longer until it’s darker—this caramelization adds wonderful taste.
- If you’re short on time, using pre-cut vegetables can save you some prep work.
- Adding a splash of red wine to the pot enhances the flavor profile beautifully if you’re feeling adventurous!
Creative twists
While this recipe is already a hit, don’t hesitate to mix it up! You can add other vegetables like parsnips, mushrooms, or even butternut squash for different textures and flavors. If you want a kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a robust flavor. For a healthier version, opt for lower-sodium broth and add extra veggies to your mix.
Common questions
What is the prep time for beef stew?
The prep time usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on your chopping speed. Cooking time will add about 2 hours, so factor in that for your meal planning.
Can I use different cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While stewing beef is ideal, other cuts like chuck roast or brisket will work just as well. Just ensure to cut them into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.
How can I thicken the stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Add it to the stew for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking and stir until it reaches your desired consistency.
With this best-ever beef stew recipe, you’re set for many cozy evenings ahead—enjoy every hearty, flavorful bite!
