Easy Vegetable Beef Stew Recipe
Crafting a heartwarming bowl of beef stew is not only a culinary delight but a journey back to comforting flavors enhanced by seasonal vegetables. An easy vegetable beef stew is perfect for those chilly days when you crave a meal as cozy as a warm sweater. With every bite, you’ll experience the harmonious blend of tender beef and succulent vegetables, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with the tantalizing aroma of her classic beef stew, simmering for hours until the meat was tender enough to cut with a spoon. Her voice and recipe, passed down, always spoke of family gatherings where this stew was a staple, filling our home with warmth and love during cold winter nights. Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of those cherished family moments.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out not only for its simplicity but for its ability to bring people together. You’ll love its budget-friendly nature, where a few inexpensive ingredients yield a hearty dish. It’s also perfect for batch cooking, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Best of all, the stew’s rich, savory taste is something both kids and adults adore, turning any dinner into a special occasion.
Ingredients Notes
Selecting the right cut of beef is crucial; opt for chuck roast or brisket for the best texture. Fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas are staples, but feel free to sprinkle in seasonal favorites. Don’t have beef stock? A quality vegetable broth works wonders. A splash of red wine can deepen the flavor profile, offering a luxurious twist to this humble stew.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by cutting your beef into bite-sized cubes, ensuring even pieces for uniform cooking. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. In a large pot, heat a dash of olive oil over medium-high heat, searing the beef cubes until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2
Add diced onions, garlic, and celery to the same pot, sautéing them until soft and caramelized. This process enhances the stew’s depth of flavor, releasing their natural sweetness.
Step 3
Return the beef to the pot along with tomato paste, which adds a rich base to the stew. Stir in beef stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Don’t rush this step; a slow simmer allows the meat to tenderize beautifully.
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Step 4
Introduce chopped carrots, potatoes, and bay leaves into the mixture. Allow everything to cook together until the vegetables are tender and the stew thickens naturally from the starches released by the potatoes.
Step 5
In the last five minutes of cooking, stir in frozen peas, which provide a vibrant pop of color and freshness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and remove bay leaves before serving.
Storage Options
This stew stores beautifully; simply cool it to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to restore the consistency.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, substitute beef with chicken or turkey, ensuring to adjust cooking times accordingly. Vegans can swap meat for mushrooms or lentils. Add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or enhance the aroma with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Serving Suggestions
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, perfect for sopping up its savory broth. Serve it with a simple green salad on the side for a balanced meal. It’s a fantastic centerpiece for Sunday dinners or any family gathering, providing warmth and comfort no matter the occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The result is a beautifully tender stew with minimal effort.
How can I thicken the stew without flour? One way is by mashing some of the potatoes directly in the pot, which naturally thickens the broth. Alternatively, blend a portion of the stew and return it to the pot for a creamy consistency.
What wine pairs well with this stew? A robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the hearty beef flavors in the stew. For those who prefer white wine, a full-bodied Chardonnay can also enhance the meal’s richness.
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Easy Vegetable Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cups water
- 4 cups carrots sliced
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 2 cups potatoes diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 15 oz
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add beef and cook until browned.
- Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours.
- Stir in carrots, celery, potatoes, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer until vegetables are tender, about 40 minutes.
Notes
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