Step-by-step instructions
Ready to dive into the cooking? Follow these straightforward steps for a perfect Hearty Country-Style Slow-Simmered Beef Stew:
- Pat the beef dry, then season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef in batches until it’s deeply browned on all sides. Remove it from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion until it’s soft, then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about a minute to enhance the flavors.
- If you’re using flour for thickening, sprinkle it in now and stir well.
- Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary, scraping up any browned bits from the pot.
- Return the beef to the pot, bring it to a simmer, cover it, and cook on low for 1 1/2 hours.
- After that time, add the potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cover the pot again and simmer for another 45–60 minutes until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pro Tip: For an even richer flavor, let the stew rest for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving this stew, there are endless possibilities. For a classic presentation, ladle the beef stew into deep bowls, garnishing each with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread or warm rolls for dipping, or pair it with a side salad for a refreshing crunch. It also goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that delicious broth.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! This stew stores beautifully. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. When it’s time to reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You can also freeze the stew for longer storage—just be sure to let it cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to three months in the freezer. Remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- If you want to save time, consider cutting your vegetables while the beef is searing.
- For an added depth of flavor, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of red wine after sautéing the onions.
- Don’t be afraid to tweak the herbs and spices to fit your taste; a bit of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
Creative twists
Love experimenting in the kitchen? Here are some creative twists to try with this stew:
- Add Different Vegetables: Try adding peas or green beans for a pop of color and texture.
- A Touch of Sweetness: You could add a tablespoon of brown sugar for a sweet and savory contrast.
- Herb Variations: Swap out the dried herbs for fresh ones, as they can provide an aromatic freshness to your stew.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation typically takes about 30 minutes, followed by a total cooking time of about 2 1/2 hours.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe to a slow cooker by browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics in a pan first, then transferring everything to the slow cooker for 6–8 hours on low.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth, although the flavor profile will differ slightly.
With warm flavors and comforting textures, Hearty Country-Style Slow-Simmered Beef Stew is sure to win hearts. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe brings everyone together, proving once again why we cherish the art of cooking. Enjoy!
