Classic Beef Stew
A hearty, slow-simmered beef stew with tender chunks of chuck, root vegetables, and a rich red-wine gravy. The ultimate cold-weather comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
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Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, about 4 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate.
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Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and tomato paste and cook 1 minute more.
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Pour in the red wine, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
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Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 1.5 hours.
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Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue simmering, covered, until the vegetables and beef are tender, about 45 minutes.
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Stir in the frozen peas and cook 5 minutes. Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning.
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Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition
Per serving, estimated.
- Calories
- 410 kcal
- Protein
- 34g
- Carbs
- 28g
- Fat
- 16g
- Fiber
- 5g
Tips
- Sear the beef in batches so the pieces brown instead of steam.
- For a thicker gravy, mash a few of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot.
- The stew tastes even better the next day; refrigerate overnight and reheat gently.
Variations
- Swap red wine for additional beef broth plus 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for a non-alcoholic version.
- Add 8 ounces of quartered mushrooms with the vegetables.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beef chuck is the best choice because its marbling breaks down during slow cooking, giving you tender, flavorful meat.
Yes. Brown the beef and aromatics on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours.
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.