Tasty Beef Stew

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Tasty Beef Stew: A Delectable Dish to Savor

Beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe features tender beef chunks, savory vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. The addition of stout beer gives the stew a unique depth, while Worcestershire sauce enhances the savory profile. This stew is a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. Here’s how to make it!

Ingredients:

  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour – For dredging the beef and thickening the stew.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – To season the beef.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds seasoning and a mild heat.
  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces) – The main protein, providing rich flavor when cooked slowly.
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil – For browning the beef.
  • 1 large sweet onion (chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed rosemary – For an herbal and slightly piney flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For seasoning.
  • 2 cups stout beer – Adds richness and depth to the stew’s broth.
  • 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Provides a savory, umami flavor.
  • 2 1/2 – 3 cups beef broth – Forms the base of the stew.
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste – Adds richness and a slight tang.
  • 2 bay leaves – Adds depth and aroma to the stew.
  • 4 carrots (peeled and cut into chunks) – For sweetness and texture.
  • 3 russet potatoes (peeled and chunked) – Adds heartiness and starch to the stew.
  • 4 sprigs thyme (or chopped fresh parsley) – For garnish and an herbal flavor boost.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

  • In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the beef chuck roast pieces in the flour mixture until well coated.

2. Brown the Beef:

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  • Add the beef in batches, browning all sides. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
  • Add the minced garlic, crushed rosemary, and pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

4. Deglaze the Pot:

  • Pour in stout beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. This will add flavor to the stew.
  • Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste, mixing well.

5. Add the Beef and Simmer:

  • Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated. Add the bay leaves.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

6. Add the Vegetables:

  • After the beef has cooked and softened, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.
  • Continue simmering for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

7. Final Touches:

  • Once the vegetables are tender, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  • Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
  • If using, garnish with chopped fresh thyme or parsley before serving.

8. Serve:

  • Serve the stew hot with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew:

  • Browning the Beef: Make sure to brown the beef well on all sides. This adds a lot of flavor to the stew.
  • Beer Choice: The stout beer adds richness, but you can substitute it with other beers or even wine if preferred. A dark ale works well, or you can use a beef broth substitute for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Slow Cooking: This stew gets better with time, so if possible, cook it ahead of time. Reheating the stew will help the flavors meld together even more.
  • Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) in the final 10 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion:

This Tasty Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s a dish that will warm you up on the coldest of days. The addition of stout beer and Worcestershire sauce takes the flavors to the next level, creating a savory, satisfying meal for the whole family.

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