- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth; substitute with additional broth if needed)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans (added toward the end)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Sear the Beef
- Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Optional: Toss the beef in flour to lightly coat (this helps thicken the stew).
- Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Build the Stew Base
- Deglaze the pot by pouring in the red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Return the seared beef to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Vegetables
- After 1 1/2 hours, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and continue simmering for an additional 30–40 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Finish and Serve
- Optional: Stir in frozen peas or green beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, black pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Enjoy every bite of this rich, hearty, and indulgent Old Fashioned Beef Stew!
- Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread or biscuits for a complete feast.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality beef and fresh vegetables make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Trim Excess Fat: Trim any excess fat from the beef before cooking to prevent the stew from becoming greasy.
- Add Depth: Enhance the flavor with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for longer storage—stew often tastes even better after freezing!
Why This Recipe Works
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew combines the rich, savory flavors of slow-cooked beef and vegetables in a thick, aromatic broth into a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. The customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste, while the straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite ingredients, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something hearty and warming, looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinners, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Old Fashioned Beef Stew is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this stew might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
