Introduction to Easy Beef Stew
The Comfort of Homemade Meals
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the aroma of a simmering pot of easy beef stew wafting through your home. Cooking it from scratch not only nourishes your body but also brings a sense of comfort that takeout just can’t replicate. Homemade meals are a way to store memories; just think about your childhood and the cozy dinners spent around the family table. Each bite tells a story.
This easy beef stew recipe is perfect for busy young professionals looking to whip up a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen. With just 30 minutes of prep time and a couple of hours simmering on the stove, you’ll be rewarded with a hearty dish filled with tender beef and colorful vegetables. Plus, the leftovers make fantastic lunch options, ensuring you can savor that feeling of warmth even when life gets hectic.
When it comes to cooking, knowing you have a comforting and filling meal ready can really brighten your day. For more tips on creating homemade meals, check out resources like EatingWell or The Kitchn for inspiration. Now, let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious easy beef stew recipe!
Ingredients for Easy Beef Stew
Creating a comforting easy beef stew is all about gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect dish that warms your soul and fills your belly!
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Beef: 3 pounds of well-marbled beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces adds rich flavor and tenderness.
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Seasoning: A tablespoon of kosher salt plus an extra teaspoon gives the beef great flavor, alongside freshly ground black pepper for a touch of warmth.
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Vegetables: Don’t skimp on the veggies! You’ll need 5 ribs of celery, 4 medium carrots, and 2 parsnips for depth of flavor. Plus, toss in a medium onion for that aromatic base.
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Herbs and Fats: Fresh thyme adds an earthy touch, while three tablespoons of olive oil help in sautéing everything to perfection.
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Liquid Gold: 4 cups of beef broth and 2 cups of water are essential for a hearty stew.
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Final Touches: A tablespoon each of balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce rounds out the flavor beautifully.
These simple yet essential ingredients will set your stew up for success! For more tips on ingredient selection, you can check out resources like Food Network or Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation for Easy Beef Stew
Cooking up a comforting easy beef stew is a delightful way to warm up your home, especially on chilly evenings. Follow these simple steps for a delicious homemade meal that is sure to impress your friends and family!
Season and Cook the Beef
Start by preparing your beef. In a large bowl, season 3 pounds of well-marbled beef chuck stew meat with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a thick-bottomed pot over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the beef all at once. Cook it for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the meat to lose its pink color and release some liquid into the pot. This initial cooking phase helps to boost the flavor of your stew without browning the beef, allowing you to multitask and prepare your vegetables simultaneously.
Add the Vegetables
Next up are the veggies! Toss in 5 ribs of celery, 1 chopped medium onion, 4 peeled and chopped carrots, and 2 peeled and chopped parsnips into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-high and season with the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir occasionally for about 10 minutes, letting the vegetables soften and the liquid evaporate. Don't forget to add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme and 1 tablespoon of flour—this will help thicken your stew later.
Simmer with Broth
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 2 cups of water, followed by 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Bring the entire mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour. As it cooks, stir every 20 minutes; you’ll notice the stew darkening and thickening beautifully.
Incorporate the Potatoes
Now, let's add the heartiness! After the hour is up, introduce 1 ½ pounds of peeled and cubed russet potatoes into the mix. Stir well to incorporate everything, and continue to simmer until those potatoes and the beef are tender, which should take another 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens, and your stew becomes a cozy concoction of flavors.
Finish and Serve the Stew
Finally, season your stew to taste. Once the meat and potatoes are perfectly tender, ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it up warm and enjoy! Don’t forget to save any leftovers in the fridge for a quick meal later in the week—just remember, stewed potatoes don’t freeze well.
This hearty, easy beef stew will not only satisfy your hunger but also keep you cozy indoors. What’s your favorite ingredient in a stew? Share in the comments!
Variations of Easy Beef Stew
Slow-Cooker Beef Stew
For a hands-off approach, try making your easy beef stew in a slow cooker. Simply brown the beef, add vegetables, broth, and seasonings, then set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks. Perfect for a busy weekday or when you have guests!
Spicy Beef Stew
If you crave a little kick, elevate your easy beef stew by incorporating spices like cayenne pepper or chili flakes. You might also consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. Pair it with some crusty bread for a comforting meal that warms you up from head to toe. For more on enhancing flavors, check out these tips.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Beef Stew
Cooking an easy beef stew can be a delightful experience. Start by trimming excess fat from the beef to avoid greasiness. If you're short on time, consider chopping vegetables in advance or opting for pre-cut ones. When it comes to seasoning, remember that fresh herbs make a big difference; try using thyme or rosemary for added depth.
Give your stew a flavor boost by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar, which balances the richness. And don't forget to adjust the salt if you swap out beef broth for another brand. For more cooking tips, visit Bon Appétit. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Beef Stew
When it's time to serve your easy beef stew, consider pairing it with complementary sides that elevate the experience. Here are a few friendly suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up delicious broth and making every bite hearty.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast to the richness of the stew.
- Mashed Potatoes: For those who adore comfort food, creamy mashed potatoes take the meal to the next level.
- Steamed Veggies: Lightly steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, enhance the meal with additional nutrients.
Feel free to explore different flavors and enjoy the cozy satisfaction this dish offers! For more serving inspiration, check out The Kitchn for delightful ideas.
Time Breakdown for Easy Beef Stew
Preparation Time
This easy beef stew requires about 30 minutes for prep. This includes cutting your vegetables and seasoning your beef. Pro tip: you can kick off cooking the beef while you finish prepping the other ingredients!
Cooking Time
Once everything is prepped, you’ll spend around 2 hours cooking the stew. It’s mostly hands-off time, perfect for catching up on your favorite series or getting some chores done.
Total Time
In all, from start to finish, you’re looking at a total of 2 hours and 30 minutes. This means it’s ideal for weekends or cozy nights when you want to fill your home with the delightful aroma of a homemade meal. For extra tips on slow-cooking, check out this guide.
Enjoy and savor every bite of your easy beef stew!
Nutritional Facts for Easy Beef Stew
Calories per serving
Each serving of this delicious easy beef stew contains approximately 518 calories, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that warms you up from the inside out. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or when you need some comfort food.
Protein content
With 32 grams of protein per serving, this stew is an excellent source of lean protein, ideal for those looking to maintain muscle mass or fuel their active lifestyles. It’s a perfect meal for young professionals balancing busy schedules with healthy eating.
Sodium information
Be mindful of the sodium content, which is around 17 grams per serving. Since we use Campbell's beef broth, it's best to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. For lower sodium options, consider using a low-sodium broth. This ensures you can enjoy your easy beef stew without overdoing it on salt.
For more in-depth information on nutrition and its benefits, check out Nutritional Guidelines and Protein’s Role in Health.
FAQs about Easy Beef Stew
Can I use a different cut of beef for stew?
Absolutely! While the beef chuck stew meat is a classic choice for its tenderness and flavor when slow-cooked, you can certainly experiment with other cuts. Consider using brisket or round roast for a different taste or texture, just be mindful that some cuts may require longer cooking times to tenderize.
How do I thicken the beef stew?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you have a few options. You can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering stew. Alternatively, let the stew simmer uncovered to allow some liquid to evaporate and naturally thicken it, or add more flour during cooking.
What are some side dishes to pair well with beef stew?
A warm crusty bread or dinner rolls is perfect for soaking up the rich broth. For a fresh touch, a simple green salad or roasted root vegetables complements the meal wonderfully. You could also serve over creamy mashed potatoes as a heartier option.
For more tips on enjoying your easy beef stew, check out sources from Taste of Home or Epicurious.
Conclusion on Easy Beef Stew
In conclusion, this easy beef stew is not just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that warms you up from the inside out. Perfect for busy evenings or weekend gatherings, it's simple yet satisfying. Enjoy leftovers throughout the week, and don't hesitate to share your thoughts with us!
Easy Beef Stew
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef chuck stew meat cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 ribs celery cut into 1-inch pieces (about 2 cups)
- 1 medium onion chopped (about 1 cup)
- 4 medium carrots peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 2 cups)
- 2 medium parsnips peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth (see recipe note)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ pounds russet potatoes peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 3 cups)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Season the beef pieces with 1 tablespoon of the salt. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is no longer pink, about 10 minutes.
- Add the celery, onion, carrots, and parsnips. Reduce heat to medium-high. Season with remaining teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Cook until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes more. Add thyme and flour, stir, and cook until raw flour is no longer visible.
- Add beef broth, water, balsamic vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook partially covered, stirring every 20 minutes, for about 1 hour.
- Add potatoes to the stew, stir, and simmer until the potatoes and beef are tender, about 30 minutes. Season to taste, sprinkle with parsley, and serve.
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