Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Introduction

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the quintessential comfort food, a hearty and nourishing dish that evokes memories of cozy kitchens and family gatherings. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients, slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, deeply satisfying broth. This classic stew is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a warm embrace on a chilly day, and a testament to the power of wholesome, home-cooked food.

The beauty of Old Fashioned Beef Stew lies in its adaptability. While the basic recipe remains timeless, variations abound, allowing you to customize it to your liking with different vegetables, herbs, and spices. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this stew is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal hands-on time and yielding impressive results. The key is patience – allowing the stew to simmer gently for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.

This recipe holds a special place in my family’s history. It’s a dish my grandmother used to make on cold winter evenings, filling the house with its comforting aroma. The memory of gathering around the table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying a bowl of warm stew, is something I cherish. Now, I carry on the tradition, making this stew for my own family, creating new memories and passing on the love of home-cooked food.

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is perfect for those days when you crave something hearty and satisfying. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s ideal for meal prepping, as it tastes even better the next day. Serve it with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth, and you have a complete and comforting meal that will warm you from the inside out. If you’re looking for a recipe that will bring your family together and create lasting memories, this is the one to make!

Perfect for:

Weeknight family dinners
Cozy weekend meals
Cold weather comfort
Meal prepping
Potlucks and gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Here’s why Old Fashioned Beef Stew will become a staple in your kitchen:

Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth, this stew is a complete and nourishing meal.
Easy to Make: Requires minimal hands-on time and simple ingredients, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Flavorful and Aromatic: Slow-cooking allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a truly unforgettable taste.
Customizable: Adaptable to your liking with different vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping and leftovers.
Comfort Food Classic: Evokes memories of cozy kitchens and family gatherings, bringing a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
Economical: Can be made with affordable cuts of beef and seasonal vegetables.
Crowd-Pleaser: A comforting and delicious dish that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile: Can be served on its own or with a variety of sides.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 3-4 hours
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 400-500 calories (depending on ingredients)
Key Nutrients: Protein: 30-40g, Carbs: 30-40g, Fat: 15-25g (approximate)

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Old Fashioned Beef Stew:

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon dried bay leaf
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups beef broth
1 cup water
1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 lb frozen peas
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

Beef Chuck: This cut of beef is ideal for stewing, as it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. It has a good amount of marbling, which renders during cooking, adding richness to the broth.
Olive Oil: Used for searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, olive oil adds a subtle flavor and helps to create a flavorful base for the stew.
Onion, Carrots, and Celery: These aromatic vegetables form the foundation of the stew’s flavor, creating a savory and complex base.
Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic note that complements the other vegetables and beef.
Thyme and Rosemary: These classic herbs provide a warm and earthy aroma that enhances the overall flavor of the stew.
Bay Leaf: Adds a subtle, yet essential, layer of flavor to the broth.
All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the stew and create a rich and velvety texture.
Beef Broth: Provides the liquid base for the stew, adding a deep and savory flavor.
Potatoes: Add heartiness and substance to the stew, absorbing the flavors of the broth and becoming tender and delicious.
Frozen Peas: Add a touch of sweetness and freshness to the stew, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Old Fashioned Beef Stew:

Prepare the Beef:

Season the Beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This helps to create a nice crust when searing.

Sear the Beef:

Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Sear on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is crucial for developing flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.

Make the Roux:

Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the stew.

Add the Liquids:

Deglaze the Pot: Gradually whisk in the beef broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds flavor and prevents sticking.

Simmer the Stew:

Return the Beef: Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add the Potatoes:

Add Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the stew and continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Add the Peas:

Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 5 minutes more, until heated through.

Season and Serve:

Season to Taste: Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be served in various ways to enhance its presentation and flavor:

In Bowls: Serve in large bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of beef, vegetables, and broth.
With Crusty Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth. Sourdough, French bread, or a rustic loaf are all excellent choices.
With a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy contrast to the rich stew.
With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary, for a pop of color and added flavor.
Over Mashed Potatoes: Serve the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting and satisfying meal.
With a Side Salad: Complement the stew with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing balance.
As a Filling for Hand Pies: Use the stew as a filling for hand pies or savory pastries for a fun and portable meal.
In a Bread Bowl: Serve the stew in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a unique and rustic presentation.
With a Sprinkle of Cheese: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
With a Drizzle of Olive Oil: Drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the stew for added richness and flavor.

Additional Tips for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Follow these tips for the best Old Fashioned Beef Stew:

Use High-Quality Beef: Choose beef chuck with good marbling for the most tender and flavorful results.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot When Searing: Sear the beef in batches to ensure it browns properly. Overcrowding the pot will steam the beef instead of searing it.
Deglaze the Pot Thoroughly: Make sure to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pot when adding the beef broth and water. These browned bits are packed with flavor.
Simmer Low and Slow: Allow the stew to simmer gently for several hours to allow the beef to become very tender and the flavors to meld.
Don’t Add Potatoes Too Early: Add the potatoes about 30-45 minutes before the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Adjust the Thickness of the Stew: If the stew is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to allow the liquid to evaporate. If it’s too thick, add a little more beef broth or water.
Season to Taste: Taste the stew throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Use Fresh Herbs Whenever Possible: Fresh herbs add a brighter and more intense flavor to the stew.
Make it Ahead of Time: Old Fashioned Beef Stew tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great dish to make ahead of time.
Freeze for Later: Beef stew freezes well, so you can make a big batch and freeze some for later.

Recipe Variations for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Here are 10 variations to customize your Old Fashioned Beef Stew:

Root Vegetable Stew: Add other root vegetables, such as parsnips, turnips, or rutabagas, for a heartier and more flavorful stew.
Mushroom Beef Stew: Add sautéed mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or porcini, for an earthy and umami-rich flavor.
Sweet Potato Beef Stew: Substitute white potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious stew.
Spicy Beef Stew: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper for a spicy kick.
Tomato Beef Stew: Add a can of diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a richer and more acidic flavor.
Guinness Beef Stew: Substitute some of the beef broth with Guinness for a dark and flavorful stew.
Herb-Infused Beef Stew: Add a bouquet garni of fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley, for a more complex and aromatic flavor.
Red Wine Beef Stew: Add a cup of dry red wine for a richer and more sophisticated flavor.
Lemon Herb Beef Stew: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a handful of fresh parsley for a bright and zesty flavor.
Creamy Beef Stew: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream for a richer and creamier stew.

Freezing and Storage for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Freezing: Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Storage: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Special Equipment for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Here are some items that make preparing Old Fashioned Beef Stew easier:

Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is essential for searing the beef and simmering the stew. Look for one that is oven-safe, if possible, for even more versatility.
Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife is essential for chopping the vegetables and cubing the beef.
Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is necessary for prepping the ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Useful for stirring the stew and scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Tongs: Helpful for searing the beef and transferring it to and from the pot.
Ladle: Makes serving the stew easy and mess-free.
Freezer-Safe Containers or Bags: Used for storing leftover stew in the freezer.
Potato Peeler: Makes peeling the potatoes quick and easy.
Vegetable Chopper (Optional): Can speed up the process of chopping vegetables, saving you time and effort.

FAQ Section for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Can I use a different cut of beef?
While beef chuck is the preferred cut for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use other cuts such as beef round or brisket. However, these cuts may require a longer cooking time to become tender.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh vegetables. Just add them to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sear the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, water, herbs, and bay leaf. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the potatoes during the last 2 hours of cooking time, and the peas during the last 30 minutes.
How do I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?
If the stew is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to allow the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking time.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to the stew, such as green beans, corn, or Brussels sprouts. Just add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking time to prevent them from becoming overcooked.
Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this stew by substituting the beef with mushrooms or other vegetables, and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How long does beef stew last in the fridge?
Beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze beef stew?
Yes, beef stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen beef stew?
Thaw frozen beef stew overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
What can I serve with beef stew?
Beef stew is delicious served on its own or with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad.

Conclusion for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, slow-cooked with love and patience. It’s a dish that transcends generations, bringing comfort and warmth to any table. The rich, savory broth, the tender beef, and the flavorful vegetables combine to create a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and nostalgic.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can easily customize it to your liking with different vegetables, herbs, and spices, making it a dish that you can truly call your own. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this stew is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal hands-on time and yielding impressive results.

Ideal for busy weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals, Old Fashioned Beef Stew will quickly become a family favorite. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for meal prepping, as it tastes even better the next day. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a dish that will warm your heart and nourish your soul. Enjoy every comforting bite! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations and tag me on social media—I love seeing how you make it your own!