There’s a reason beef stew has been a cold-weather staple for centuries: it’s hearty, forgiving, and rewards patience with melt-in-your-mouth results. This easy beef stew recipe skips complicated steps without sacrificing flavor, focusing on tender meat, aromatic broth, and wholesome veggies. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll love how effortlessly this dish comes together. Let’s dive into the secrets of slow-cooked perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stew skips complicated steps without sacrificing taste. With simple ingredients like chuck roast, carrots, potatoes, and pantry staples, it’s easy to customize. Plus, the hands-off simmering time means you can multitask while dinner cooks itself.
Beef Stew Essentials: Ingredients & Tools
A great beef stew starts with quality ingredients and the right equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
Tools
- Dutch Oven or a heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heat distribution.
- Wooden Spoon: For deglazing without scratching the pot.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast (cut into 2-inch cubes): Chuck’s marbling ensures tender beef as it cooks.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: For searing and building flavor.
- 1 large onion (chopped) + 4 garlic cloves (minced): The aromatic base.
- 4 cups beef broth: Use low-sodium to control seasoning.
- 3 large tomatoes, pureed: Adds richness and balances the broth
- 4 carrots (chopped) + 3 potatoes (cubed): Sturdy veggies that hold up to simmering.
- Salt + black pepper: Season to taste.
- Cilantro, to garnish
Step-by-Step Guide to Tender Beef Stew
Follow these simple steps for tender beef stew every time:
- Prep the Beef
Pat the beef dry with paper towels (crucial for a good sear). - Sear for Flavour
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until deeply browned (3–4 minutes per side). - Build the Base
Reduce heat to medium. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until soft (5 minutes). Stir in pureed tomato, cooking until sauce thickens (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. - Deglaze & Simmer
Add the potatoes and carrots to the pot, then pour in the broth, then bring to a gentle boil. - Low-and-Slow Cooking
Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 45 minutes. - Final Touches
Taste and adjust salt/pepper. Garnish with Cilantro then let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving—this allows flavours to meld.
Best Beef Stew Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast cut into 2-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups broth
- 3 large tomatoes pureed
- 3 medium potatoes (russet), cubed
- 4 medium carrots chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cilantro to garnish
Instructions
- Pat the beef dry with paper towels (crucial for a good sear).
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until deeply browned (3–4 minutes per side).
- Reduce heat to medium. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until soft (5 minutes).
- Stir in pureed tomato, cooking until sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper
- Add the potatoes and carrots to the pot, then pour in the broth, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Taste and adjust salt/pepper. Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving—this allows flavours to meld.
Notes
Please note that the nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on the products used in the recipe
Nutrition
Tips to ensure the beef is tender
- Don’t Skip the Sear
Browning the beef creates a flavour foundation. Crowding the pan steams the meat—sear in batches for the best crust. - Low Heat is Key
A gentle simmer (tiny bubbles, not a rolling boil) keeps the beef from toughening. - Customize Your Veggies
Swap potatoes for parsnips or add mushrooms in the last 15 minutes for variety. - Thicken the Broth (Optional)
Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water, then stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes for a richer texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this easy beef stew with:
- Mashed Potatoes or rice for a carb-loaded comfort meal.
- Crusty bread for dipping.
Tips:
- You can use any good-quality beef for this recipe. I get mine from Costco.
- For extra flavour and even healthier options, you can add other vegetables to the stew, such as corn or peas.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
This beef stew recipe is the ultimate way to turn simple ingredients into a soul-warming meal. With tender meat, savory broth, and minimal prep, it’s proof that easy cooking can still be extraordinary. Ready to make it your own? Share your creation and tag us. We’d love to feature your take! For more fuss-free recipes, subscribe below and never miss a delicious update.
In conclusion, beef stew is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any day that everyone in the family will enjoy. This recipe is easy to make and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. So the next time you’re looking for a warm and hearty meal, give this beef stew recipe a try.
Also, try
- Flavorful Chicken Wings Stew
- The Best HomeMade Beef Stroganoff
- How to Make The Best Pot Roast Recipe
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