Introduction
Dive into Comfort with this Hearty Beef Stew!
Perfect for cozy days and sharing with family and friends, this beef stew is packed with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy mouth-watering aromas all day long!
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
- 750 g of beef, cut into cubes
- 3 onions, finely chopped
- 750 g of carrots, peeled and chopped
- 500 g of potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 3 cubes of beef broth
- 500 ml of water
- 1 small can of tomato concentrate
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 happy tummies
Directions
1. Heat up a generous splash of oil and butter in a saucepan. Toss in the beef cubes, browning them all over for that extra flavor.
2. Add the onions and sauté until they gain a beautiful golden hue. Season liberally with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, dissolve the beef broth cubes in hot water, then pour over your sizzling beef mixture.
4. Cover the pot and let it simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes. Perfect time for a tea break!
5. Stir in the tomato concentrate, potatoes, and carrots. Mix it all up!
6. Replace the lid and let everything simmer away for a leisurely 3 hours, giving it a stir now and then, until your beef is melt-in-the-mouth tender.
Nutrition Info
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Calories: Approximately 350 | Protein: 38g | Fat: 12g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Fiber: 5g
Conclusion
Get ready to savor every spoonful and share the love with this classic stewed delight!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat up a generous splash of oil and butter in a saucepan. Toss in the beef cubes, browning them all over for that extra flavor.
Step 2: Sautéing the Onions
Add the onions to the saucepan and sauté until they gain a beautiful golden hue. Season liberally with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Preparing the Broth
In a separate bowl, dissolve the beef broth cubes in hot water. Then, pour this mixture over your sizzling beef and onion combination.
Step 4: Initial Simmer
Cover the pot and let it simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes. This is a great time for a tea break!
Step 5: Adding Vegetables
Stir in the tomato concentrate, potatoes, and carrots. Mix it all up to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 6: Long Simmer for Tenderness
Replace the lid and let everything simmer away for a leisurely 3 hours. Give it a stir now and then, until your beef is melt-in-the-mouth tender.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This stew is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing Instructions
This beef stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it can be kept for up to 3 months.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like peas, green beans, or parsnips, and adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Cook techniques
Browning the Beef
Browning the beef cubes in oil and butter enhances the stew’s flavor by creating a rich, caramelized surface, contributing to the overall depth of taste.
Sautéing Onions
Sautéing onions until golden caramelizes their natural sugars, adding sweetness and complexity to the stew.
Dissolving Broth Cubes
Dissolving beef broth cubes in hot water ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the stew, making each bite enjoyable.
Slow Simmering
Simmering the stew for several hours allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb, chicken, or even vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms or tempeh for a different flavor profile.
How can I thicken the stew?
To thicken the stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What can I serve with beef stew?
Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes, making it a hearty meal.
Can I make this beef stew ahead of time?
Yes, beef stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well for up to three months.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.
Conclusion
This hearty beef stew is a comforting dish that promises warmth and satisfaction, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Beef Soup
A lighter option using similar ingredients but in a brothier format that’s perfect for colder days.
Beef Stroganoff
A delicious alternative that uses tender beef in a creamy sauce, served over egg noodles or rice.
Shepherd’s Pie
A comforting meat pie topped with creamy mashed potatoes, ideal for using up leftover stew.
Beef and Barley Stew
A nutritious twist that adds barley for extra texture and fiber, enhancing the stew’s heartiness.
