Old Fashioned Beef Stew: A Hearty and Comforting Meal

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s a warm and comforting meal that’s perfect for cold winter nights, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables. This dish is easy to make, and it can be prepared in advance, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. In this article, we’ll show you how to make Old Fashioned Beef Stew, step-by-step.

Ingredients

To make Old Fashioned Beef Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make Old Fashioned Beef Stew:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

• Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef chuck and cutting it into 1-inch cubes.
• In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the beef in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the beef to the pot in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove it from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Saute the Vegetables

• Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pot and add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Saute for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Beef Back to the Pot

• Add the beef back to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.

Step 5: Add the Liquid and Seasonings

• Add the beef broth, red wine, bay leaf, and dried thyme to the pot.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

Step 6: Add the Potatoes and Peas

• Add the cubed potatoes and frozen peas to the pot.
• Continue to simmer the stew for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

• Remove the bay leaf from the pot and serve the stew hot with a crusty bread or crackers.

Tips and Variations

• You can add any vegetables you have on hand, such as green beans, corn, or mushrooms.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add more flour to the beef before browning it, or you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be made in advance and reheated, making it a great choice for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a classic dish that’s perfect for cold winter nights or any time you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting meal. This recipe is easy to follow, and the ingredients are simple and affordable. The beef chuck is a budget-friendly cut of meat that becomes tender and flavorful after being simmered in the liquid for an extended period. The combination of beef broth, red wine, and herbs gives this stew a rich and savory flavor that will satisfy any meat lover. Plus, the addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes makes it a well-rounded and nutritious meal.

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is also a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking. You can add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices to make it your own. You can also adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more flour or cornstarch, depending on your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I use a slow cooker to make Old Fashioned Beef Stew? Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make this recipe. Follow the instructions up until step 5, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
2. Can I substitute the beef chuck with another cut of meat? Yes, you can use another cut of beef like sirloin or round steak, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut.
3. Can I freeze Old Fashioned Beef Stew? Yes, you can freeze the stew in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
4. Can I make this recipe without the red wine? Yes, you can omit the red wine if you prefer or substitute it with beef broth or vegetable broth.
5. How many servings does this recipe make? This recipe makes about 6-8 servings, depending on the portion size.