Beef and Potato Stew

Beef and Potato Stew is a timeless classic that wraps you in warmth with every delicious bite. The tender beef combined with hearty potatoes and vibrant carrots makes this dish not only filling but also incredibly comforting. Perfect for chilly days or family gatherings, this stew is a simple way to nourish your loved ones while filling your home with delicious aromas. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful meal!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 350 calories
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Sodium: 800 mg

Why I Love This Beef and Potato Stew

This Beef and Potato Stew holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family dinners around the table, sharing stories and laughter.

There’s something magical about smelling the stew bubbling away on the stove and knowing that a cozy meal is just around the corner.

It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe whenever I need something heartwarming and delicious.

The tender chunks of beef melt in your mouth, while the potatoes add a comforting touch. Plus, it’s one of those meals that tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
4 carrots, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Beef and Potato Stew

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown on all sides. This step adds depth and flavor to the stew!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Broth

Toss in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Increase heat to high and bring the stew to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low.

Step 6: Cover and Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy the warming flavor!

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth made from scratch or adding a splash of red wine to the stew for depth.
• Serve the stew with crusty bread or over rice for a heartier meal.
• Feel free to swap out the carrots and potatoes for seasonal veggies like parsnips or sweet potatoes.
• For a lighter version, use leaner cuts of beef or even try it with chicken.

Delicious Variations

• Chicken and Vegetable Stew: Swap out the beef for chicken thighs and add your favorite vegetables for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Lentil Stew: Replace beef with lentils and use vegetable broth for a filling vegetarian dish.
• Beef Stroganoff: For a creamy twist, try another comforting beef dish that uses similar ingredients over egg noodles.
• Chili Con Carne: Spice things up with a chili recipe that incorporates ground beef and beans, bringing bold flavors to the table.

Serving Suggestions for Beef and Potato Stew

Serve this stew hot, directly from the pot, for the ultimate cozy experience. Pair it with a fresh green salad or a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. If you like a bit of heat, drizzle some hot sauce on top for an extra kick!

This stew is perfect for dinner on a chilly evening, and it even makes a delightful lunch the next day.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover Beef and Potato Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Helpful Questions

1. Can I use other cuts of beef?
   Yes! You can substitute with brisket or stew meat; just be mindful of cooking times.

2. Is there a vegetarian version?
   Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and replace meat with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.

3. Can I add different vegetables?
   Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavors.

4. What can I serve with this stew?
   A slice of bread, salad, or even mashed potatoes are great options alongside this stew.

5. How do I thicken the stew?
   To thicken, you can mash some of the potatoes in the stew or add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water) towards the end of cooking.

Enjoy your delicious Beef and Potato Stew, and happy cooking!

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