✔ In a bowl, toss beef with flour, salt, and black pepper.
✔ Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
✔ Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides (about 4-5 minutes).
✔ Remove and set aside.
✅ Browning locks in flavor and creates a rich base for the stew!
2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics
✔ In the same pot, add onions, garlic, and celery.
✔ Sauté for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
✔ Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf.
✅ This enhances the deep, savory flavor of the broth!
3️⃣ Simmer the Stew
✔ Return the beef to the pot and pour in beef broth and red wine.
✔ Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 ½ – 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
✅ Slow simmering makes the beef ultra-tender!
4️⃣ Add Vegetables & Finish Cooking
✔ Stir in carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms.
✔ Continue simmering for 30-40 minutes, until veggies are fork-tender.
✔ Remove bay leaf and taste for seasoning—add extra salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
✔ If using, stir in frozen peas for the last 5 minutes.
✅ Perfectly thick, rich, and packed with flavor!
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Serve hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or over rice.
✔ Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan.
✅ A soul-warming, hearty meal the whole family will love!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Slow Cooker Version – Brown beef, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours.
🔹 Instant Pot Version – Use the Sauté mode to brown the beef, then pressure cook for 35 minutes and natural release for 10 minutes.
🔹 Gluten-Free Version – Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
🔹 Spicy Kick – Add extra paprika or cayenne pepper! 🌶️
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Freeze for up to 3 months—thaw overnight and reheat in a pot.
✔ Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth if needed.
✅ Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Best Homemade Beef Stew!
This rich, hearty, and ultra-comforting beef stew is perfect for cold nights, meal prep, or special gatherings. With tender beef, deep flavors, and a silky broth, it’s truly the best homemade stew ever!
