beef stew

Here’s a classic beef stew recipe for you:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
• 4 large carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
• 2 tablespoons water (for mixing with flour)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
2. Brown the Beef:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Add the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
   • Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add Remaining Ingredients:
   • Return the browned beef to the pot.
   • Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and beef broth. Mix well.
6. Simmer the Stew:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
7. Add Vegetables:
   • Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot.
   • Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
8. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
   • In a small bowl, mix the flour with the water to make a slurry.
   • Stir the slurry into the stew and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the stew has thickened.
9. Season and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
   • Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Enjoy your hearty and comforting beef stew!