Old Fashioned Beef Stew

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, this dish warms the soul and satisfies the palate. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive holiday meal, this stew delivers rich flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce creates a deep, savory taste that elevates the dish.
• Hearty Ingredients: Packed with tender beef and fresh vegetables, this stew is both filling and nutritious.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice cooks can enjoy making this delightful meal.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect for dinner parties or a family meal; serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for an extra treat.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather your essential tools before starting. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in preparing your Old Fashioned Beef Stew.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking and allows even heat distribution for tender meat.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables without damaging your countertops.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts which help ingredients cook evenly.

Ingredients

This Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and all the right herbs and spices.

For the Beef Stew

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

For the Vegetables

• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 10 ounces pearl onions
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 cup cold water

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Dust 2 pounds beef stew meat with 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef. Sear for about 5 minutes until all sides are browned, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and 2 tablespoons tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in 4 cups beef broth and 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Add diced potatoes, pearl onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 90 to 120 minutes until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

In a small bowl, mix remaining 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until completely dissolved. Slowly pour this mixture into the stew while stirring constantly. Cook on low heat for a few more minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Taste your Old Fashioned Beef Stew. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot for a comforting meal!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. You can enhance the experience with a few simple serving suggestions that pair beautifully with this hearty dish.

Serve with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread: The aromatic flavor of garlic bread complements the savory stew nicely.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh taste when sprinkled on top.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and tang to each bowl.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and the creaminess of Caesar dressing create a delightful contrast.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with fresh vegetables balances the richness of the stew.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Rustic Bowls: Serving in rustic bowls enhances the presentation and makes it feel homey.
• Small Cast Iron Pots: For a charming touch, serve individual portions in small cast iron pots.

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How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Old Fashioned Beef Stew, consider these simple tips:

• Use Quality Meat: Choose well-marbled beef for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Brown the Meat Well: Searing the beef creates depth of flavor from caramelization.
• Long Simmering Time: Allowing time for flavors to meld makes all the difference; aim for at least 90 minutes.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning just before serving to enhance flavors without over-salting.
• Thicken Gradually: Add cornstarch slowly to control thickness without clumping.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Enjoying Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be elevated by serving it alongside these delicious side dishes:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the stew perfectly, absorbing its rich flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered egg noodles provide a nice base under the stew.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast that brightens up your plate.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf soaks up gravy, making each bite delightful.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with savory stew, adding a comforting touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the searing step: Not browning the beef can lead to a less flavorful stew. Always sear the meat until it’s nicely browned to enhance the taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too much meat at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Work in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning will result in bland stew. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process for a rich flavor.
• Ignoring the simmer time: Rushing through cooking will leave the beef tough. Allow plenty of time for simmering so the meat becomes tender and flavors meld.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth can lead to dry stew. Ensure you have enough liquid to cover all ingredients for optimal results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in a covered dish and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Old Fashioned Beef Stew:

How long does Old Fashioned Beef Stew take to cook?

The total cooking time is around 120 minutes, ensuring the beef becomes tender and flavorful.

Can I customize my Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

What type of meat is best for Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender during long cooking times, making it perfect for this recipe.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs in Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

While fresh herbs enhance flavor, dried herbs work well too. Use what you have on hand!

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a warm and comforting dish that brings joy with every spoonful. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a heartwarming meal that’s perfect for any occasion!