The Comfort of Home: Stovetop Beef Stew Recipe

As the seasons change and the brisk air nudges us towards the cozy corners of our kitchens, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of beef stew simmering on the stovetop. Rich, hearty, and extraordinarily satisfying, this stovetop beef stew infuses your home with mouthwatering aromas that evoke nostalgia and warmth. Imagine the savory scent of tender beef paired with fresh vegetables wafting through your space, enticing family and friends to gather around the table.

The beef is succulent and tender, each bite releasing a symphony of flavors complemented by the sweetness of carrots and the earthiness of potatoes. The hearty broth envelops you in warmth, making it the perfect remedy for chilly evenings spent cuddled up on the couch.

When to Make This Recipe

This stovetop beef stew is ideal for cozy family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or lazy weekends when all you crave is a heartwarming meal. It’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion—be it a hearty dinner after a day outdoors or an indulgent meal to serve on a chilly Sunday afternoon. Moreover, with its straightforward cooking process, this stew allows you to maintain the pace of your day while still enjoying a homemade meal.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 375
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g

(Nutritional values are estimated using a general database and may vary based on ingredients and brands. Always consult medical or nutritional professionals for personalized advice).

Why Make This Recipe

This stovetop beef stew is not only a feast for the senses but also an effortless way to create a wholesome meal that brings people together. The blend of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich broth delivers a hearty flavor profile that is both nourishing and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, freeing up your time to tend to other things, while the unique blend of ingredients develops its flavors as it simmers. It’s a classic comfort food that exudes warmth, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones.

How to Make Stovetop Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef in batches and brown it on all sides, removing it once browned to a separate plate.
2. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and potatoes. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot and stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
5. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the stew to achieve a thicker consistency.
6. Remove the bay leaf before serving hot.

How to Serve

Serve the beef stew in bowlfuls, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for a nice splash of color, or enjoy it with freshly baked bread for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine or a cup of herbal tea.

How to Store

Leftover beef stew can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 hours. For refrigeration, keep it in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s fully cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water if the stew thickens too much.

Expert Tips

• For the best flavor, try using high-quality beef broth or make your own from scratch.
• Brown the beef well to enhance the depth of flavor; don’t rush this step!
• Consider adding garlic or red wine for added complexity in taste.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with hearty mushrooms and the broth with vegetable broth.

Delicious Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute beef with chunks of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs such as rosemary or oregano for a more fragrant dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen beef?
   Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.

2. What if my stew is too watery?
   Simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to thicken.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Absolutely! Pork, lamb, or poultry can also work well in stews.

4. How do I prevent vegetables from becoming mushy?
   Add them at different stages of cooking; add firmer veggies first and softer ones later.

5. What can I do with leftovers?
   Make a shepherd’s pie or serve it over rice for a different meal.

Conclusion

This stovetop beef stew is a timeless classic that never fails to deliver warmth and delight to any meal table. With its ease of preparation, rich flavors, and comforting nature, it’s bound to become a staple in your home. Gather your loved ones, share a bowl, and embrace the bliss of homemade comfort food. We’d love to hear about your cooking experiences or any creative variations you’ve come up with! Happy cooking!

Stovetop Beef Stew

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• Author: recipechangegmail-com
• Total Time: 135 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A rich and hearty stovetop beef stew that warms the soul and brings family together.

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Ingredients

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• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef in batches and brown it on all sides, removing it once browned to a separate plate.
2. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and potatoes. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot and stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
5. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the stew to achieve a thicker consistency.
6. Remove the bay leaf before serving hot.

Notes

For best flavor, use high-quality beef broth. Leftover stew can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 375
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 90mg