Hearty Classic Beef Stew – A Cozy Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction
Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This hearty classic beef stew is packed with tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving a cozy homemade meal, this one-pot wonder is simple to make and absolutely delicious. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the beef:

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck or stewing beef (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the stew:

• 4 cups beef stock
• 1/2 cup red wine or water (optional)
• 3 large carrots (cut into chunks)
• 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup mushrooms (optional, sliced)

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef in batches, browning each side for about 3–4 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and celery. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Build the Base

1. Deglaze the pot with red wine or water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
2. Pour in the beef stock and add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Stir well.

Step 4: Add Beef and Vegetables

1. Return the seared beef to the pot.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms (if using). Mix everything together.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

1. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer gently for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
2. Check the beef and vegetables for tenderness, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
2. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or buttered rolls.

Tips for a Perfect Beef Stew

• For the most tender meat, use beef chuck and cook it slowly over low heat.
• Make it thicker by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors develop further.

Conclusion
This hearty beef stew is the ultimate comfort food for cold days or any time you need a satisfying, warm meal. The tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth make it a recipe to treasure. Try it out and bring a touch of warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.

Call to Action
Have you tried this recipe? Let us know your thoughts and share your photos in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your creations. Save this recipe for your next meal prep—it’s sure to become a household favorite! Enjoy!