Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the rich, comforting flavors of Old-Fashioned Beef Stew to warm you up on a chilly day. This classic recipe features tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth that’s slow-simmered to perfection. With layers of deep, savory flavors, it’s the ultimate comfort food that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. Follow this step-by-step recipe for a delicious, traditional Old-Fashioned Beef Stew that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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What Is Old-Fashioned Beef Stew?

Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is a timeless dish made by simmering beef chunks with potatoes, carrots, onions, and other vegetables in a rich broth until everything becomes tender and flavorful. The beef is usually seared first to develop a deep, caramelized flavor, and the broth is thickened naturally as it simmers, creating a hearty stew. It’s the perfect dish for fall or winter, or anytime you’re craving something hearty and wholesome.

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Ingredients List for Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

This stew is made with simple, wholesome ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry or fridge. The key to a delicious beef stew is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking your time to let the flavors meld together during the slow cooking process.

Main Ingredients:

• Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast, brisket, or another tough cut that becomes tender when cooked slowly.
• Potatoes: Yukon gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and don’t turn mushy.
• Carrots: Add sweetness and heartiness.
• Onions: For flavor and depth.
• Garlic: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.
• Beef Broth: Forms the base of the stew, giving it depth and richness.
• Tomato Paste: Adds richness and helps thicken the stew.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor to the broth.
• Bay Leaves and Thyme: Classic herbs that bring a deep, earthy flavor.
• Flour: Used to coat the beef and help thicken the broth.
• Red Wine or Vinegar: Optional, but a splash of red wine or vinegar adds a bit of acidity that balances the richness of the stew.

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Ingredients List (Serves 6-8)

Here’s the full list of ingredients you’ll need for an Old-Fashioned Beef Stew that serves 6-8 people:

• 2 pounds of beef stew meat (chuck roast or brisket), cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or red), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups of beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup of red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth or 1 tablespoon vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Substitutions and Variations

This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is versatile, and you can easily adapt it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

Meat:

• Pork or Lamb: For a different flavor, substitute beef with pork shoulder or lamb.
• Chicken Stew: Use chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter stew, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Vegetables:

• Parsnips or Turnips: Add or substitute parsnips or turnips for an earthier flavor.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a deep, umami flavor to the stew.
• Peas or Green Beans: Stir in frozen peas or green beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added color and texture.

Broth:

• Vegetable Broth: For a lighter flavor, you can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to coat the beef for a gluten-free version.

These variations allow you to customize the stew while still keeping it hearty and delicious.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make a classic Old-Fashioned Beef Stew from scratch:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the beef into 1 ½-inch cubes, if it’s not already pre-cut. Pat the beef dry with paper towels (this helps with browning), and season it with salt and pepper. Toss the beef with flour to lightly coat it.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

If using red wine, pour it into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this adds flavor!). Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly. If you’re not using wine, deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Flavorings

Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 7: Simmer the Stew

Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir the stew occasionally to prevent sticking. If the stew becomes too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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How to Cook Old-Fashioned Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Brown the Beef: Sear the beef cubes until browned for added flavor and depth.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Soften the onions and garlic, then deglaze the pot with wine or broth.
3. Simmer with Broth: Add beef broth, tomato paste, and seasonings, and return the beef to the pot.
4. Add Vegetables: Add carrots and potatoes, then let the stew simmer on low heat until the meat is tender and the flavors are well-developed.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Browning the Beef: Don’t skip the step of browning the beef! It adds essential flavor and helps build a rich base for the stew.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Add the vegetables later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy. They should be tender but still hold their shape.
• Undercooking the Beef: Make sure the beef is simmered long enough to become tender. Tough cuts of meat require slow cooking to break down the fibers and become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Not Deglazing the Pot: Deglazing helps release the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot, which add richness to the stew.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is ready, here’s how to serve it:

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Serve the stew hot, straight from the pot. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, biscuits, or mashed potatoes to soak up the savory broth. For a heartier meal, you can also serve it with buttered noodles or rice.

Presentation Ideas for Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds color and freshness to the rich stew.
• Serve in a Bread Bowl: For a fun presentation, serve the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls.
• Side Salad: Pair the stew with a light, crisp side salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

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Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: Beef stew often tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.
• Storage: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This stew freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! To make beef stew in a slow cooker, follow the same steps for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, green beans, mushrooms, or parsnips toward the end of cooking for more variety.

Q: Can I use water instead of beef broth?
A: While you can use water, beef broth adds a much richer flavor. If you’re out of broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or chicken broth.

Q: How do I thicken my beef stew?
A: If your stew is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

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Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something warm and hearty. With tender beef, rich broth, and wholesome vegetables, it’s a timeless recipe that’s simple to make and always satisfying. Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavors of a true classic!

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