Old Fashioned Beef Stew

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth, every bite warms you from the inside out. This dish stands out with its blend of herbs and spices, making it not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a cozy meal at home, this stew fits the bill beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This stew is loaded with protein and vegetables, making it a complete meal in itself.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this classic dish without any fuss.
• Flavorful Depth: The combination of beef broth and Worcestershire sauce gives this stew a rich umami flavor that is truly comforting.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Old Fashioned Beef Stew, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the stew evenly over low heat.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and meat.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

This Old Fashioned 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 Seasoning

• 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 of beef stew meat with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Season it with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

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

Step 3: Add Flavor Elements

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

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and add 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Then 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 everything together.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

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

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

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

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a hearty meal that warms the soul. Serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of freshly baked crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth of the stew.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist that adds extra flavor and texture.

Accompanied by Green Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew, balancing the meal beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme brightens the dish and adds a pop of color and flavor.

With Rice

• Serve the stew over fluffy rice, allowing it to absorb the savory juices while adding a different texture to your meal.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Creating a perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your stew is delicious every time.

• Use quality beef: Choose well-marbled chuck roast for tender chunks of meat that melt in your mouth.
• Brown the meat properly: Searing the beef until browned adds depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Skip the rush: Allow enough simmering time; low and slow cooking makes all ingredients tender and flavorful.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Let it rest: Allowing the stew to sit for 30 minutes after cooking enhances its flavors even more.
• Refrigerate overnight: If possible, refrigerate leftovers; flavors deepen and improve when reheated.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Beef Stew can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfectly toasted garlic bread complements the stew’s richness while offering a crunchy texture.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Season seasonal vegetables and roast them until tender for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.

3. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the stew nicely.

4. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with beef stew, providing a delightful contrast of flavors.

5. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh element that balances out the hearty nature of the stew.

6. Baked Potatoes
   Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with butter or sour cream, making them an excellent companion for dipping into the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Always choose a tough cut like chuck roast for stew. Tender cuts will fall apart and won’t give you the rich flavor needed.
• Skipping the browning step: Searing the beef is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; it adds depth to your stew.
• Overcrowding the pot: If you add too much meat or vegetables at once, they won’t brown properly. Work in batches if necessary.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season your beef and broth can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking.
• Cooking on high heat: Stews benefit from low and slow cooking. High heat can make the meat tough instead of tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Old Fashioned Beef Stew in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Place cooled stew in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in a covered oven-safe dish and heat for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Old Fashioned Beef Stew that might help enhance your cooking experience.

How do I make Old Fashioned Beef Stew thicker?

To thicken your stew, mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the pot. Stir constantly while simmering until thickened.

Can I use different vegetables in Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or green beans based on preference.

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

Chuck roast is ideal as it becomes tender during slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts that may dry out.

How long does Old Fashioned Beef Stew take to cook?

It typically takes about 90-120 minutes of simmering after browning the meat for optimal tenderness.

Can I make Old Fashioned Beef Stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! After browning the meat and sautéing vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is not just a meal; it’s comfort food that warms both body and soul. This recipe offers flexibility—experiment with different veggies or spices based on what you love most. Dive into this hearty dish today!

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Old Fashioned Beef Stew

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, ideal for cozy nights or family gatherings. This hearty dish features tender chunks of beef, a medley of seasonal vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out. Infused with classic herbs and spices, every spoonful is satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this stew delivers both flavor and warmth.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into chunks)
• 10 ounces pearl onions
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 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

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Instructions

1. Dust the beef with cornstarch and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned.
3. Add minced garlic and tomato paste; cook briefly until fragrant.
4. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pot. Add potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, sugar, and spices; stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 90 to 120 minutes until beef is tender.
6. Thicken by mixing remaining cornstarch with cold water; stir into stew while simmering on low heat.
7. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg