When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the rich, savory taste of a homemade beef stew. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with delicious aromas, warms you from the inside out, and brings everyone to the table. The best part? It doesn’t take complicated techniques—just a little time, patience, and a few fresh ingredients.
Why Beef Stew Works Every Time
Beef stew is beloved for its balance of tender meat, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s a dish that feels rustic yet satisfying, making it perfect for both family dinners and meal prep. Slow simmering allows the beef to soften while the flavors blend into a rich, comforting sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: a splash of red wine for extra depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef – Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add the beef cubes, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics – In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste for a deeper flavor base.
- Build the Stew – Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, celery, beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. If using red wine, add it here.
- Simmer Slowly – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender.
- Taste and Adjust – Remove bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Serving Ideas
This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, buttered rice, or even mashed potatoes. Leftovers often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Final Thoughts
Cooking beef stew is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating a comforting experience. With simple ingredients and slow cooking, you can turn beef into a hearty, soul-warming meal that feels like home.