Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Name: Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-480989H24M23S
Total time: PT-1H40M
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 pounds cubed beef stew meat; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups water; 2 cups beef broth; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 4 cups cubed potatoes; 2 cups chopped carrots; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 cup fresh corn kernels; 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup chopped turnip (optional); 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (optional)

Isabella

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Warm, hearty, and brimming with wholesome flavors, old-fashioned beef stew is a timeless classic that brings comfort with every spoonful. This recipe harks back to traditional cooking methods, where simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish step by step.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 pounds cubed beef stew meat

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

4 cups water

2 cups beef broth

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

4 cups cubed potatoes

2 cups chopped carrots

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 cup fresh corn kernels

1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 cup chopped turnip (optional)

2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (optional)

Instructions:

Searing the Beef:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Add the cubed beef stew meat to the pot and sprinkle with all-purpose flour, stirring to coat the beef evenly.

Allow the beef to brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Simmering the Beef:

Once the beef is browned, add water, beef broth, salt, and pepper to the pot.

Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Adding Vegetables:

After an hour of simmering, stir in the cubed potatoes, chopped carrots (or turnips), and dried rosemary.

Continue to simmer the stew for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the beef and vegetables are tender and the flavors have developed.

Final Touches:

As the stew nears completion, add the fresh corn kernels and green beans to the pot.

Allow the stew to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to harmonize.

Optional Ingredients:

For additional flavor and texture, consider adding chopped turnips and fresh tomatoes to the stew during the final stages of cooking. These optional ingredients add depth to the dish and can be adjusted according to personal preference.

Serving:

Once the stew is cooked to perfection, serve it hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pair the old-fashioned beef stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Related Recipes:

Old Fashioned Pancakes

Serving and Storage Tips for Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Serving Tips:

Presentation Matters: Serve the beef stew in deep, wide bowls to showcase its hearty ingredients. A garnish of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma that complements the rich flavors of the stew.
Accompaniments: Pair your beef stew with crusty bread, rolls, or a side salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, while a light salad can balance the heartiness of the stew with a refreshing crunch.

Wine Pairing: A robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the savory beef and root vegetables in the stew. The wine’s tannins complement the richness of the stew, enhancing the dining experience.
Customize Each Serving: If you have optional ingredients like turnips and tomatoes, or even a dollop of sour cream or grated cheese, allow guests to add these to their bowls according to their taste preferences for a personalized touch.

Storage Tips:

Cooling Down: Allow the stew to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can dilute the flavors and affect the texture of the stew.

Refrigeration: Store the stew in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Use shallow containers to help the stew cool more quickly and evenly.
Freezing: Beef stew freezes exceptionally well. Portion the stew into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label each container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw the stew in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the stew has thickened too much upon storage, you can thin it with a little water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Microwave Thawing and Reheating: For a quick option, you can thaw and reheat portions in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it to avoid splattering, and stir periodically to ensure even heating. Adjust the power level to avoid overheating the edges while the center remains cold.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your old-fashioned beef stew remains a delicious and comforting meal, whether served fresh or enjoyed as leftovers.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for the stew?

While cubed beef stew meat is traditional for this recipe, you can certainly use other cuts of beef suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck roast or bottom round. These cuts become tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow, perfect for hearty stews.

How can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste preferences?

Seasoning preferences can vary widely among individuals. Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your taste. You can also add additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor depth.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, this beef stew recipe can be adapted for both slow cookers and Instant Pots. For a slow cooker, follow the same steps but transfer everything to the slow cooker after browning the beef and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, follow the same steps but use the sauté function to brown the beef, then pressure cook on high for about 30 minutes with a natural release.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan alternatives for this stew?

Absolutely! You can create a delicious vegetarian or vegan version of this stew by substituting the beef with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor with umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce or miso paste.

Conclusion:

Old-fashioned beef stew is a classic dish that never goes out of style. With its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth, this recipe is a comforting reminder of simpler times. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter’s night or served at a gathering with loved ones, this timeless dish is sure to warm both body and soul. So gather your ingredients, simmer up a pot of goodness, and savor the delicious flavors of homemade old-fashioned beef stew.