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### Instructions for Hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
#### Step 1: Brown the Beef
– Heat **olive oil** in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef stew meat in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until it develops a rich brown crust, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
– Once the beef is browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. This step adds tons of flavor to the stew base.
#### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
– In the same pot, add the **onion** and **garlic**. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
– Add the **celery** and **carrots** to the pot, and cook for another 3-4 minutes. This will start to release the sweet flavors of the vegetables, making the stew even more flavorful.
#### Step 3: Deglaze with Wine (Optional)
– If using, pour in the **red wine** to deglaze the pot, scraping the browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. These bits add great flavor to the stew! Let the wine simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
#### Step 4: Add the Liquids and Seasonings
– Return the browned beef to the pot and stir in the **beef broth**, **tomato paste**, and **Worcestershire sauce**. Add the **dried thyme** and **bay leaf**, then season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Stir to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed.
#### Step 5: Cook the Stew
– Bring the stew to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef will become tender, and the vegetables will soften, infusing the broth with all their delicious flavors.
#### Step 6: Add the Potatoes
– After the stew has been simmering for about an hour, add the **potatoes** to the pot. Continue cooking the stew for another 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the beef is fork-tender.
#### Step 7: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
– If you prefer a thicker stew, mix **1 tablespoon cornstarch** with 2 tablespoons cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the broth thickens to your desired consistency.
#### Step 8: Final Taste Check
– Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more **salt**, **pepper**, or **Worcestershire sauce** if necessary. Discard the **bay leaf** before serving.
### Tips for the Perfect Hearty Beef Stew
– **Choose the right cut of beef**: Chuck roast is an ideal choice for beef stew because it’s flavorful and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. Avoid leaner cuts like sirloin, which can become tough when stewed.
– **Let it simmer low and slow**: The key to a tender, flavorful beef stew is slow cooking. Let the stew simmer for at least 1.5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
– **Add herbs for flavor**: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley can elevate the flavor of your stew. If you’re using fresh herbs, tie them together in a bundle to make removal easier before serving.
– **Make it ahead**: Beef stew often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
– **Adjust the thickness**: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a portion of the potatoes directly in the pot or use the cornstarch slurry as suggested.
### Why This Beef Stew Is So Special
**Hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Stew** isn’t just a meal—it’s a comforting tradition. Its rich, savory broth and tender beef, combined with the earthy sweetness of vegetables, create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s simple, yet so satisfying, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers for days.
This recipe harkens back to the classic, hearty stews that have been passed down through generations. The slow-cooked flavors and tender chunks of beef remind us of home, family, and cozy meals shared around the table.
### Serving Suggestions
– **Serve with crusty bread**: A thick slice of warm, crusty bread or a buttery dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
– **Pair with a salad**: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the stew.
– **Top with fresh herbs**: Garnish your stew with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
### Conclusion
**Hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Stew** is a beloved recipe that never goes out of style. Its deep, rich flavors and comforting nature make it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly winter evening or making it ahead for an easy dinner, this stew will always be a hit. So, grab your pot and start cooking up this delicious, one-pot meal—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
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