Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This hearty dish features tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich broth that warms the soul. The combination of herbs and spices elevates its flavor, making it a classic choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or preparing a meal for guests, this stew is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: The rich taste of slow-cooked beef combined with savory vegetables creates a satisfying meal.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious stew simmering on the stove in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
- Great for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves eight, making it ideal for gatherings and family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking Old Fashioned Beef Stew, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering the stew evenly.
- Cooking spoon: Essential for stirring ingredients thoroughly to enhance flavor integration.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results.
Ingredients
This Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and all the right herbs and spices.
For the Stew
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 10 ounces pearl onions
- 4 medium carrots (sliced)
- 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 cup cold water
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Dust 2 pounds of beef stew meat with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear for about 5 minutes until all sides are browned, stirring frequently.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Add diced potatoes, pearl onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sprinkle in sugar, dried basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and ground allspice. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Simmer the Stew
Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 90 to 120 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.
Step 6: Thicken the Stew
In a small bowl, mix the remaining cornstarch with cold water until dissolved. Slowly pour this mixture into the stew while stirring constantly. Cook on low heat for a few more minutes until thickened.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Taste your stew and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot for an unforgettable meal!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Serving Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a delightful experience that brings warmth to the table. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, ensuring every bite is comforting and satisfying.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Sourdough – The tanginess of sourdough complements the stew perfectly.
- French Baguette – A classic choice for dipping into the rich broth.
- Garlic Bread – Adds a flavorful twist and aroma to your meal.
Serve Over Rice or Noodles
- White Rice – Absorbs the juices beautifully, making each bite scrumptious.
- Egg Noodles – Their texture pairs wonderfully with tender beef and veggies.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to your stew.
- Thyme Sprigs – Enhances the herbal flavor while adding a rustic touch.
Accompany with a Salad
- Caesar Salad – A crisp, creamy salad that balances the richness of the stew.
- Garden Salad – Fresh greens provide a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Creating the perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some ways to elevate your stew:
- Choose Quality Meat – Select well-marbled beef chuck for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Sear Properly – Browning the beef adds depth and richness to your stew’s flavor profile.
- Add Variety of Vegetables – Including different vegetables enhances texture and nutrition.
- Use Homemade Broth – If possible, use homemade beef broth for a richer taste.
- Let It Simmer Longer – Allowing extra time for simmering makes the beef even more tender.
- Adjust Seasoning at End – Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper after cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent choices that pair beautifully with Old Fashioned Beef Stew:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide another layer of comfort alongside the stew.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add flavor and color to your plate.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread contrasts nicely with savory flavors in the stew.
- Steamed Green Beans – Bright green beans give a fresh crunch that complements the dish well.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances hearty flavors.
- Buttered Peas – Simple buttered peas add sweetness and a pop of color on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the browning step: Searing the beef adds a rich flavor to your stew. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for depth of taste.
- Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to a bland stew. Season your meat and vegetables generously throughout the cooking process.
- Cutting vegetables too small: If your veggies are cut too small, they may become mushy. Aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces that hold up during cooking.
- Cooking on high heat: Cooking on high heat may cause the beef to toughen. Always simmer on low heat for tenderness and richer flavors.
- Neglecting to thicken at the end: If you want a thicker stew, don’t forget to use cornstarch or flour towards the end. This will give your stew a satisfying texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Beef stew lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation and spoilage.
Freezing Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers as the stew may expand when frozen.
Reheating Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30-40 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer serving size into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Pour stew into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe special?
This recipe stands out because it combines tender beef with hearty vegetables and a blend of spices that create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
How do I know when my Old Fashioned Beef Stew is done?
The stew is done when the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked but still hold their shape. This usually takes about 90-120 minutes of simmering on low heat.
Can I customize my Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms or experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences.
What type of beef is best for Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender after long cooking times and has great flavor. Avoid lean cuts that may dry out during cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew offers warmth and comfort in every bowl, making it perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have available or personal preferences. Give this classic recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chunks of beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that warms your heart. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this stew combines the deep flavors of slow-cooked beef with a medley of seasonal veggies and aromatic spices. Simple to prepare and even better as leftovers, this recipe is sure to impress at any dinner table. With its satisfying taste and inviting aroma, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds!
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes
- 10 ounces pearl onions
- 4 medium carrots
- 4 medium celery ribs
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
- Dust beef with cornstarch and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the seasoned beef until browned.
- Add minced garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in vegetables and spices.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 90-120 minutes until beef is tender.
- Thicken the stew with a cornstarch-water mixture if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Choose well-marbled chuck roast for tenderness. Customize by adding seasonal veggies like peas or mushrooms. Let the stew sit overnight for enhanced flavor.
