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### **For the Beef Stew**:
– 2 lbs **beef chuck roast** (cut into 1-inch cubes)
– 1 tablespoon **olive oil**
– 1 **large onion**, chopped
– 3 cloves **garlic**, minced
– 4 cups **beef broth** (preferably low-sodium)
– 2 cups **water** (or more beef broth if preferred)
– 3 medium **carrots**, peeled and chopped
– 3 medium **potatoes**, peeled and diced
– 2 **celery stalks**, chopped
– 1 cup **peas** (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon **tomato paste**
– 1 teaspoon **dried thyme**
– 1 teaspoon **dried rosemary**
– 2 **bay leaves**
– Salt and **pepper** to taste
– 1 tablespoon **Worcestershire sauce** (optional, but adds depth)
– 1 tablespoon **cornstarch** (optional, for thickening)
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## **How to Make the Most Delicious Beef Stew Ever**
### **Step 1: Brown the Beef**
Start by heating the **olive oil** in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the **beef chunks** in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. This step is crucial for developing flavor, as the caramelization adds depth to the stew.
– Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
### **Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
In the same pot, add the **onion** and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the **garlic** and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
– Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this adds extra flavor to your stew!).
### **Step 3: Build the Stew**
Return the browned beef to the pot, and add the **tomato paste**, **beef broth**, and **water**. Stir to combine, making sure the tomato paste is fully dissolved into the liquid.
– Add the **carrots**, **potatoes**, **celery**, **thyme**, **rosemary**, **bay leaves**, and **Worcestershire sauce** (if using).
– Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
### **Step 4: Simmer**
Bring the stew to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer gently for about **1.5 to 2 hours**, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
– Check the stew occasionally and add a bit more water or broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
### **Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)**
If you prefer a thicker stew, make a simple slurry by mixing the **cornstarch** with a little cold water. Stir the mixture into the stew and cook for another 10-15 minutes to thicken.
– You can also adjust the seasoning at this point by adding more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce.
### **Step 6: Add the Peas**
About 10 minutes before the stew is done, add the **peas** and allow them to cook through. This adds a pop of color and texture to the stew.
### **Step 7: Serve**
Once the stew is done cooking, remove the **bay leaves** and serve hot. Pair it with a side of **crusty bread** or **buttered rolls** to soak up all the delicious broth.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
This beef stew is hearty and filling on its own, but here are a few side ideas to complement the meal:
– **Garlic Bread**: A warm, crispy loaf of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the stew’s savory broth.
– **Fresh Salad**: A light, crisp **green salad** with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: **Roasted Brussels sprouts** or **green beans** make a delicious, nutritious side.
– **Mashed Potatoes**: For an extra indulgent side, serve the stew over **creamy mashed potatoes**.
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## **Why This Beef Stew is the Best**
– **Flavorful and Filling**: The tender beef, aromatic herbs, and savory broth come together to create a stew full of comforting flavors.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion**: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family meal, this stew is perfect for any occasion.
– **Easy to Customize**: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes.
– **Great for Leftovers**: This stew often tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Delicious Beef Stew** is the perfect dish to serve when you want something hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. From the tender beef to the flavorful broth and melt-in-your-mouth vegetables, every bite is pure comfort. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or as a make-ahead meal, this stew will surely become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, heat up that pot, and let the magic of this beef stew fill your home with warmth and deliciousness!
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