Hearty Stovetop Beef Stew

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of beef stew on a chilly evening. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this hearty stovetop beef stew is the perfect dish to satisfy everyone’s hunger. Packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this stew is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of making the most delicious stovetop beef stew, complete with tips and tricks for creating the perfect flavor. We’ll also include nutritional information, preparation time, and detailed instructions so that you can confidently make this dish at home. So let’s dive in and get ready to prepare one of the most comforting meals you’ll ever make!

Ingredients for Stovetop Beef Stew (US Cups & Measures)

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients. These simple but essential items come together to create a stew bursting with flavor. You’ll need the following:

For the Beef and Broth:

  • 2 lbs chuck beef, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

  • 1 cup dry red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)

  • 4 cups beef broth

  • 1 tbsp beef base (or bouillon paste)

For the Vegetables:

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 3 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped

  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme

  • 2 bay leaves

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to begin! Now, let’s break down the process.

Directions: How to Make Hearty Stovetop Beef Stew

Stage 1: Prepare the Beef

The first step in making your beef stew is to prepare the beef cubes, which will help create a flavorful base for the stew. In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes with the following:

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp beef base (optional, for added richness)

Toss the beef cubes and spices together until well-coated. The flour will help thicken the stew later, while the Worcestershire sauce and seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the beef.

Stage 2: Sear the Beef

Now it’s time to sear the beef. This step is crucial because it locks in all the juices and creates a rich brown crust on the beef, which adds to the depth of flavor in the stew.

  1. Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

  2. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Sear each side for about 2–3 minutes, or until browned and crispy.

  3. After searing, remove the beef cubes from the pot and set them aside. This step may take a few minutes, but the result will be well worth it!

Stage 3: Sauté Vegetables

With the beef seared and set aside, it’s time to sauté the vegetables. This will build layers of flavor that will enrich the broth.

  1. In the same pot, add the chopped celery, onion, and minced garlic. The residual oil and beef bits in the pot will infuse the vegetables with flavor.

  2. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. You may need to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any caramelized bits from the beef. These browned bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will contribute to the stew’s richness.

Stage 4: Build the Stew

This stage is when all the flavors start coming together.

  1. Stir in 2 tbsp of tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes. The tomato paste adds a subtle sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the beef.

  2. Add the seared beef back into the pot, along with all the juices that have accumulated in the bowl.

  3. Pour in 1 cup of dry red wine (if using). The wine will deglaze the pot, lifting any leftover caramelized bits and giving the stew a deeper, more complex flavor. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

  4. Add 4 cups of beef broth, making sure the ingredients are well covered. If needed, add more broth to cover the beef.

  5. Add the fresh rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. These herbs will infuse the stew with aromatic flavors as it simmers.

Stage 5: Simmer the Stew

With all the ingredients combined, it’s time to let the stew simmer and develop its rich, hearty flavor.

  1. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This long simmer allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld together.

Stage 6: Add the Vegetables

After the beef has simmered and softened, it’s time to add the potatoes and carrots. These vegetables will soak up the stew’s flavorful broth and add a hearty texture.

  1. Add the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and chopped carrots to the pot.

  2. Stir gently to incorporate the vegetables into the stew.

  3. Continue simmering for an additional 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.

Stage 7: Final Touches

Once the stew is done simmering, it’s time to finish things off.

  1. Remove and discard the rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. These herbs are no longer needed but have done their job in flavoring the stew.

  2. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Sometimes the broth may need a little extra salt, depending on your preference.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

  • Total Time: 2 hours

This recipe is perfect for a weekend meal or any day when you want something warm and satisfying. The hands-on time is relatively short, but the slow simmering makes the stew incredibly rich and flavorful.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew

  • Thicker Broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mash a few of the potatoes directly in the pot. This will release their starch, naturally thickening the stew without the need for any additional thickeners.

  • Optional Red Wine: If you’re not keen on using red wine, feel free to omit it. The stew will still be delicious with just the beef broth. However, red wine adds a depth of flavor that can’t be replicated easily with other ingredients.

  • Richer Flavor: For a richer, more complex flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar during the simmering stage. It enhances the umami notes in the stew.

  • Serving Suggestions: This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. It’s hearty enough to be the star of the meal but can be complemented with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 350 kcal

  • Protein: 40g

  • Carbohydrates: 30g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sugar: 5g

  • Sodium: 700mg

Please note that these values are estimates and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade beef stew. This hearty stovetop beef stew recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a delicious, rich meal without spending all day in the kitchen. By following these simple yet effective steps, you’ll be able to create a flavorful stew that’s tender, satisfying, and sure to please the whole family.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the directions, and enjoy a bowl of this comforting stew today. Whether you’re having a cozy dinner at home or feeding a crowd, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and heartiness of this classic dish!

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