Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of old-fashioned beef stew to warm you up on a chilly day. This hearty classic is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners or cozy weekends at home. Simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, this stew will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

What Is Old-Fashioned Beef Stew?

Old-fashioned beef stew is a traditional dish made by simmering beef and vegetables in a seasoned broth until tender. What makes this recipe special is its combination of wholesome ingredients and slow cooking, which develops a deep, savory flavor. Perfect for pairing with crusty bread, it’s a timeless comfort food loved by many.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps with minimal prep work.
• Rich Flavor: The slow simmer brings out robust, savory flavors.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein, vegetables, and comforting goodness.
• Customizable: Adapt to your preferences with different veggies or herbs.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, or substitute with more broth)
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef

1. Toss beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remove and set aside.

Building the Flavor

3. In the same pot, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to develop its flavor.

Creating the Broth

5. Deglaze the pot with red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Add beef broth, dried thyme, and the bay leaf. Return the browned beef to the pot and stir.

Cooking the Stew

7. Add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir well, then cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Cook until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.

Final Touch

8. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas if desired. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty beef stew hot, paired with warm crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. A side salad or steamed green beans also makes an excellent accompaniment. Don’t forget a glass of red wine if you used it in the recipe!

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze leftover stew in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for best results.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for dredging the beef.
• Low-Carb: Skip the potatoes and replace with additional celery or turnips.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
• Herbs and Spices: Add rosemary or parsley for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Can I skip the wine?
Absolutely. Substitute with an extra cup of beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.

What cuts of beef work best?
Beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, but brisket or stewing beef also work well.

This old-fashioned beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold nights or family gatherings. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Try it today, and let us know how it turns out!

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