Hearty Homestyle Beef Stew Recipe
As the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty bowl of beef stew. This traditional dish, beloved for its robust flavors and simplicity, brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. While many variations exist, sticking to a classic homestyle recipe often yields the best results, conjuring up memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. This particular recipe for Old Fashioned Beef Stew is not only easy to make but also budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Why Make Beef Stew a Day Ahead?
Preparing this beef stew a day in advance is a wise trick many seasoned cooks use. Allowing the stew to sit overnight enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together beautifully. When reheated, each bite offers a richer and more cohesive taste profile, making it an even more delicious experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 4 cups of water
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cups of potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups of carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 cup of fresh corn kernels
- 1 cup of fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup of turnips, peeled and chopped (optional)
- 2 cups of fresh tomatoes, chopped (optional)
Preparation Method:
- Start with Browning the Meat: In a large, heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the cubed beef with the flour to coat evenly, then add to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned on all sides. This not only adds flavor but also gives the stew a pleasing texture.
- Simmer the Base: Once the beef is browned, pour in the water and beef broth. Stir in the salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for about an hour. This slow cooking process helps to tenderize the beef, making it wonderfully soft and succulent.
- Add Root Vegetables: After the meat has simmered, add the potatoes and carrots, along with the turnips if using. Sprinkle in the dried rosemary for an aromatic touch. Continue to simmer the stew, covered, for another 1 to 2 hours. The long simmer allows the flavors to deepen and the root vegetables to absorb the savory broth, becoming perfectly tender.
- Introduce Additional Vegetables: About 30 minutes before you plan to finish cooking, add the corn and green beans to the pot. These vegetables don’t need as long to cook and will retain a slight crunch, adding texture to the stew.
- Final Touches and Season to Taste: If you’re using fresh tomatoes, stir them in just a few minutes before the stew is done to keep their fresh flavor and slight firmness. Give the stew a final taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this flavorful beef stew hot, ideally after it has rested overnight and been reheated gently. Accompany it with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the delightful broth. This stew is a complete meal in itself but can also be paired with a simple green salad for added freshness.
Conclusion:
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of comfort food. By preparing it a day ahead, you allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer dining experience. Perfect for a lazy weekend meal, a family gathering, or simply when you need a comforting dish, this beef stew promises warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Enjoy the process of making it and the delicious results that follow.
image source : Easy Daily Recipes
