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Cozy Up with This Delicious Beef Stew with Vegetables

When the weather turns chilly and you find yourself craving something warm and hearty, look no further than this classic Beef Stew with Vegetables. This recipe is not only a fantastic way to whip up dinner for the family, but it’s also an opportunity to cozy up in the kitchen and create something truly special. On those hectic weeknights or leisurely weekends, a comforting stew is the answer to your culinary dreams—and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew with Vegetables

Picture this: it’s been a long day, the kids are fidgety, and your partner asks the dreaded question—“What’s for dinner?” Enter the beef stew! This recipe not only embraces the beauty of simple ingredients but also transforms them into something extraordinary with minimal effort. Plus, you can customize it with vegetables your family loves (or try to convince them to love). The tenderness of the beef mingling with rich vegetables and a savory broth makes this dish one everyone will savor.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the culinary magic, let’s gather our stars! Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful stew:

• 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, cut into chunks
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups of beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (feel free to use low or non-alcoholic if needed)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s roll up our sleeves! Cooking should be fun and approachable, so here’s your step-by-step guide to crafting this delicious beef stew.

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot in batches. Brown all sides—don’t worry if they get a bit crispy; it just adds flavor!

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute. Your kitchen is about to smell incredible!

3. Add the Veggies: Now, it’s time for the stars of our show! Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir them around for a couple of minutes to let them warm up and mingle with those lovely onion and garlic flavors.

4. Pour in the Liquid Gold: Time to deglaze! Pour in the red wine, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This is where the magic happens! Then stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, and rosemary. Return the browned beef to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle simmer.

5. Stew It Up: Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours on low heat. The longer, the better—this is where the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender! During this time, you might want to catch up on a few episodes of your favorite show—just keep an ear out for that bubbling stew!

6. Final Touches: Once your stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want a thicker stew, you can mash a few chunks of potatoes against the side of the pot. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving—it makes everything look extra fancy.

Cooking Tips

• Mix It Up: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like peas, green beans, or even mushrooms. This stew is your canvas!
• Extra Flavor: If you want an umami boost, toss in a few ounces of mushrooms when you add the other veggies; they really deepen the flavor.
• Batch Cooking: Make a double batch and freeze half for those days when cooking feels like a chore. Just reheat and you’ve got a meal ready to go!

Personal Anecdotes

I’ll never forget the first time I made this beef stew with vegetables. I was juggling work, kids, and, of course, that mountain of laundry waiting in the next room. I decided to try this recipe on a whim, and it quickly became a family favorite! My kids slurped it up like it was the sweetest dessert. It’s amazing how a simple stew can create such happy memories at the dinner table!

FAQs

Can I substitute the red wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer to skip the wine, just use extra beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months—just thaw and reheat gently.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Simply brown the beef and veggies as instructed, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Bringing this Beef Stew with Vegetables into your home isn’t just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about creating those cozy moments and making memories that you’ll cherish forever. So, grab your apron, invite your loved ones to shard, and enjoy this delicious recipe all season long. Happy cooking!

Meta Description: Beef Stew with Vegetables is the perfect recipe for busy nights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your family’s favorite!