This hearty stove top beef stew is the ultimate comfort food! With tender beef, rich broth, and lots of veggies, it’s perfect for chilly nights.
Cooking this stew feels like a warm hug. I love how the aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone gather around. You can’t beat a big bowl of stew on a cold day!
Plus, it’s simple to make! Just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer—easy peasy for a cozy meal anyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for stews because it’s flavorful and becomes tender with slow cooking. If you need a substitute, beef stew meat or brisket works well too!
Carrots and Potatoes: They add sweetness and heartiness. Feel free to swap in sweet potatoes or parsnips for a different taste. You can use frozen veggies in a pinch too!
Red Wine: This adds depth to the flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, increase your beef broth or try grape juice mixed with vinegar for a similar tang.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary enhance the stew’s taste. If you have fresh herbs, use them! Just remember, fresh herbs are more potent so use about three times the amount when substituting.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Beef for Stew?
Browning the beef is key for adding flavor! Follow these tips for the best results:
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; it’ll steam instead of brown. Work in batches if needed.
- Let the beef sit without stirring for a bit to form a nice crust.
- Use medium-high heat to achieve that golden brown color, which enhances the stew’s flavor.
How Can I Thicken My Beef Stew?
If your stew is thinner than you’d like, here’s a simple method to thicken it:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.
- Stir this mixture into the stew near the end of cooking, and let it simmer uncovered for about 5-10 minutes.
- Check the thickness; you can always adjust with more flour-water mix if needed!
Enjoy your cozy stew making—it’s a perfect way to warm up your home and hearts!
Cozy Stove Top Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-2 inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cold water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy beef stew will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 20 minutes chopping and browning, followed by 2 hours of simmering to let all those delicious flavors come together. Perfect for a chilly day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. In batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides until they are nicely seared—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This will give your stew a wonderful aroma!
3. Add the Tomato Paste:
Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir it in, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. This step makes the stew even richer!
4. Deglaze the Pot:
If you’re using red wine, pour it into the pot now. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—these bits are packed with flavor! Let the wine reduce for 2-3 minutes.
5. Simmer the Stew:
Now, return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, followed by the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally!
6. Add Veggies:
After 1.5 hours, it’s time to add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Cover again and continue simmering for another 30-40 minutes, or until both the vegetables and beef are tender.
7. Thicken the Stew:
To thicken the stew, mix the flour and cold water together in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew and let it cook uncovered for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens to your liking.
8. Final Touches:
Remove the bay leaves, taste the stew, and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cozy beef stew hot, garnished with some fresh chopped parsley. Pair it with crusty bread for an extra comforting meal!
Enjoy the warmth and delicious flavors of your homemade stew—perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket, round, or even sirloin. Just ensure it’s well-marbled for the best results.
What Can I Use Instead of Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, simply increase the amount of beef broth by a cup. Alternatively, you can use grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity of wine.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your cozy beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to customize your stew with other veggies like peas, green beans, or even mushrooms. Just be mindful of their cooking times; add them in the last 15-20 minutes to prevent overcooking.
