Best Ever Beef Stew: Hearty, Flavorful & Comforting

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  1. Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and flour.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the beef in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

  1. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
  2. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its sweetness.
  3. Pour in red wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Stew

  1. Return the seared beef to the pot and add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

  1. Stir in carrots, potatoes, and celery.
  2. Cover and simmer for another 30–40 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

  1. Remove bay leaves and stir in frozen peas for the last 5 minutes.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Serving and Storage Tips

🥘 Best served fresh, but even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
🥘 Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🥘 Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat before serving.

Variants

  1. Slow Cooker Beef Stew – Sear the beef, then cook all ingredients in a slow cooker on LOW for 7–8 hours.
  2. Instant Pot Beef Stew – Pressure cook on HIGH for 35 minutes, then quick release.
  3. Spicy Beef Stew – Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
  4. Low-Carb/Keto Beef Stew – Swap potatoes for turnips or cauliflower.
  5. Mushroom Beef Stew – Add sliced mushrooms for extra umami flavor.

FAQ

1. What’s the best cut of beef for stew?

Beef chuck is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.

2. Can I make beef stew without wine?

Yes! Just replace it with extra beef broth.

3. How do I thicken the stew?

If you like it thicker, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it in at the end.

4. Can I make this in advance?

Yes! It tastes even better after sitting overnight as the flavors blend.

5. What’s the best side dish for beef stew?

Serve with crusty bread, rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles.

Final Thoughts

This Best Ever Beef Stew is rich, hearty, and packed with deep flavors that develop with slow cooking. Whether you make it on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, this stew is pure comfort in a bowl.

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