Name: Warm Up with Old Fashioned Beef Stew: Hearty Comfort Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Beef Stew Meat (beef chuck roast is ideal for tenderness); 4 cups Beef Broth (homemade is best, but store-bought works great); 4 medium Red Potatoes (cut into uniform chunks); 3 medium Carrots (sliced evenly); 2 stalks Celery (can be substituted with green bell pepper); 1 cup Pearl Onions (can use diced onion or shallots); 4 cloves Garlic (fresh is preferred); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (can be replaced with tomato sauce); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce (soy sauce is a good alternative); 1 teaspoon Dried Herbs (Oregano, Basil, Parsley, Paprika, Allspice) (use fresh herbs for a brighter taste); 1 teaspoon Sugar (feel free to omit if desired); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (can be substituted with flour); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (substitute with any oil or butter)

As I stirred the pot, a wave of nostalgia enveloped me, reminding me of cozy gatherings and hearty meals enjoyed at home. The timeless recipe for Old Fashioned Beef Stew brings together tender beef and vibrant vegetables, simmered slowly to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. This recipe is not only simple and rewarding but also a fantastic option for busy weeknights, allowing you to dive into other chores as it cooks. Plus, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser; whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this stew satisfies every craving. So, get ready to fill your kitchen with its mouthwatering aroma—what side dish will you serve alongside this classic comfort?

Why is this beef stew irresistible?

Hearty, Traditional Comfort: This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the epitome of cozy meals, bringing warmth to your table with each spoonful. Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of tender beef and vibrant vegetables simmers together, creating a rich broth that’s packed with taste. Easy Cooking: Perfect for busy days, you can set it on the stove and let it do its magic while you tackle other tasks. Versatile Sides: Pair it with crusty bread or fluffy biscuits for a complete meal that impresses family and friends. Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With its inviting aroma, it’s sure to be the star of your dinner table, just like the delightful Chilli Beef Spice dish!

Old Fashioned Beef Stew Ingredients

• Discover essential elements for this classic comfort food!

For the Stew Base
Beef Stew Meat – Provides the main protein; beef chuck roast is ideal for tenderness.
Beef Broth – Forms the stew base; homemade is best, but store-bought works great.
Vegetables
Red Potatoes – Adds heartiness; cut into uniform chunks for even cooking.
Carrots – Sweet and earthy; slice evenly to match cooking time with potatoes.
Celery – Provides aromatics; can be substituted with green bell pepper.
Pearl Onions – Adds sweetness and texture; diced onion or shallots can also work.
Flavor Enhancers
Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh is preferred, though garlic powder can substitute.
Tomato Paste – Contributes acidity and depth; can be replaced with tomato sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami; soy sauce is a good alternative.
Seasonings
Dried Herbs (Oregano, Basil, Parsley, Paprika, Allspice) – Add seasoning and flavor; use fresh herbs for a brighter taste.
Sugar – Balances flavors; feel free to omit if desired.
Thickening and Cooking
Cornstarch – Serves as a thickening agent; can be substituted with flour for a gluten-rich option.
Olive Oil – Used for browning meat; substitute with any oil or butter.

Every ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting this sumptuous Old Fashioned Beef Stew, so make sure to gather them before getting started!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
In a large bowl, take the cubed beef stew meat and coat it evenly with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well-covered for that perfect sear. This step should take about 5 minutes, so you’re ready to move on with the browning process.

Step 2: Sear the Meat
Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the beef in batches, searing for about 5 minutes on each side until beautifully browned. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can prevent proper browning. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring them together for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will infuse the oil with rich flavors as you scrape up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom from searing the meat. It sets the foundation for your Old Fashioned Beef Stew.

Step 4: Build the Base
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well to combine. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those savory bits. Once mixed, bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, preparing it for the robust flavors to come.

Step 5: Add Vegetables
Now it’s time to add the diced red potatoes, pearl onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery into the pot. Sprinkle the mixture with sugar and your dried herbs, letting the vegetables soak up the stew’s flavorful base. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring even coverage.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the stew to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot with a lid. Allow it to simmer for 90 to 120 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft. The aroma will fill your kitchen, a sure sign that your Old Fashioned Beef Stew is on its way to perfection.

Step 7: Thicken the Stew
To thicken your stew, prepare a slurry by mixing the remaining cornstarch with a splash of cold water. Slowly stir this mixture into the simmering stew and let it cook for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. The stew should become rich and velvety.

Step 8: Final Adjustments
Once thickened, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for an additional few minutes to marry the flavors before serving hot. Your comforting Old Fashioned Beef Stew is now ready to warm hearts and bellies alike!

Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Searing Success: Always sear the meat in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of browning. This enhances the stew’s rich flavor!
Even Cuts: Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate, yielding a perfectly tender texture in your Old Fashioned Beef Stew.
Cornstarch Caution: Reserve some cornstarch for adjusting thickness at the end. Adding it all at once can lead to an overly thick stew, making it hard to achieve the desired consistency.
Patience is Key: Resist the urge to increase the heat; cooking low and slow is essential for yielding tender beef that practically falls apart in your mouth!
Herb Swaps: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs for a brighter flavor profile, but remember to adjust the amounts if using dried seasonings.

Make Ahead Options

These Old Fashioned Beef Stew preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the beef with cornstarch, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance; this will help develop deeper flavors during cooking. Additionally, chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply sear the beef, sauté your aromatics, and add everything to the pot as usual. This way, you’ll save valuable time on hectic evenings without sacrificing the comforting flavors of your beef stew. The stew’ll be just as delicious, with those tender chunks waiting to warm your family’s hearts!

Old Fashioned Beef Stew Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this stew your own with these delightful twists!

Poultry Swap: Use chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. This twist adds a delicious new flavor while maintaining heartiness.
Root Veggie Addition: Include parsnips or turnips alongside potatoes for a seasonal touch. These root veggies will bring a slightly sweet note to your stew.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with bay leaves or fresh thyme for a fragrant lift. These herbs add layers of flavor, elevating your dish to new heights.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This adds a delightful zing that awakens the taste buds.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a comforting creaminess that rounds out the flavors.
Mushroom Magic: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth. It enhances the umami and gives the stew a robust flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Italian Flair: Incorporate Italian seasoning and a can of diced tomatoes. This brings a whole new vibe reminiscent of comfort food classics like Greekstyle Chickpea Stew.
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, swap beef with hearty lentils and add extra veggies. This twist is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavors!

Whichever variation you decide to try, your Old Fashioned Beef Stew will surely delight and warm your home with its inviting aroma. Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Classic Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

A comforting bowl of stew deserves equally delightful companions to complete the meal experience.

Crusty Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up the savory broth. Freshly baked or toasted, it adds warmth to the table.
Buttered Egg Noodles: These tender noodles provide a gentle, rich flavor that complements the stew’s heartiness perfectly, creating a satisfying balance in texture.

A simple side salad with mixed greens is ideal, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef stew. The crispness of fresh vegetables brightens the meal and adds a splash of color to your plate.

Fluffy Biscuits: These warm, buttery delights are fantastic for mopping up leftover sauce! They add a delightful fluffiness to your meal experience.
Roasted Root Vegetables: A vibrant medley of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provides a beautiful flavor contrast to the savory stew.
Red Wine: A robust red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, elevates the dish, as the tannins harmonize with the beef, enhancing the flavors in every bite.

Whichever side you choose, these pairings create a complete dining experience that everyone will cherish. Enjoy the warm, inviting aromas and flavors that wrap around you like a comforting embrace!

Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This will help maintain the stew’s rich flavors and texture while preventing spoilage.
Freezer: Freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, but be aware that potatoes may soften upon thawing.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the stew becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth to restore its desired consistency.
Serving Tip: Reheat only the portion you plan to serve, keeping the rest in the freezer for another cozy meal. Your Old Fashioned Beef Stew will taste delicious for days to come!

Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the right beef for my stew?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using beef chuck roast, as it becomes incredibly succulent when slow-cooked. Look for meat with a good amount of marbling—this fat will melt into the stew, enriching the broth. If chuck isn’t available, bottom round or brisket are decent substitutes.

How should I store leftover beef stew?
Very! To store your Old Fashioned Beef Stew, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container, where it will remain good for up to 3 months. Just be mindful that potatoes may become softer when thawed!

Can I freeze Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Absolutely! To freeze, first cool the stew completely. Next, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.

What if my stew is too thick?
Good question! If your stew turns out too thick, don’t fret. Simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into your simmering stew gradually until it reaches your desired thickness. Alternatively, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up while retaining flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! If anyone in your household has dietary restrictions, here are a few tips: you can easily substitute beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. If gluten is a concern, use a gluten-free thickener in place of cornstarch. Just make sure to check labels on your broth and Worcestershire sauce, as some brands may contain gluten.