Traditional Beef Stew Recipe
Beef stew is a classic dish that has been around for generations. It is a hearty meal that can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. It is a great way to use up leftovers and is a popular dish for weeknights or special occasions. This traditional beef stew recipe is sure to please the whole family. It is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
To make this traditional beef stew recipe, you will need:
- 2 pounds of beef stew meat
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
To make this traditional beef stew recipe, follow these instructions:
- Heat the oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes and simmer for an additional 45 minutes.
- Stir in the parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the stew hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations
This traditional beef stew recipe is just a starting point. You can customize it with different ingredients and seasonings to suit your own tastes. Here are some tips and variations to try:
- Add 1/2 cup of red wine for a richer flavor.
- Replace the beef broth with chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
- Replace the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of frozen peas or corn for a burst of sweetness.
- Replace the thyme with rosemary or oregano for a more herbal flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of white beans for a hearty, protein-packed stew.
- Replace the beef with chicken or pork for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This traditional beef stew recipe is a hearty and comforting dish. Serve it with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or with a side of rice. You can also top it with shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. For a complete meal, add a side salad or some steamed vegetables.
Storage
This beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
Conclusion
This traditional beef stew recipe is an easy and delicious dish that the whole family will love. It is packed with flavor and is sure to become a regular in your weekly meal rotation. It can be made on the stovetop or in the slow cooker and is a great way to use up leftovers. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a hearty and comforting meal on the table in no time.