Description
This Ultimate Beef Stew is the definition of cozy comfort food. Loaded with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth laced with red wine and herbs, it simmers into a soul-warming classic perfect for chilly nights or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
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Add beef broth and return the seared beef to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil.
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Stir in carrots, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours or until beef is fork-tender and vegetables are cooked through.
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Uncover and simmer an additional 15 minutes to thicken the stew if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
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For a thicker stew, mash a few potato cubes into the broth or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
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Add a bay leaf or rosemary sprig for deeper flavor during simmering.
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This stew freezes well—cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
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Great with crusty bread or served over buttered noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop (Simmered)
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food