There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of beef and vegetable stew. The tender, flavorful beef combined with the hearty potatoes, carrots, and peas makes for a rich, savory meal that is perfect for colder weather. This stew is not only satisfying but also a great way to nourish your body with simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl! This classic recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to share with loved ones, beef and vegetable stew delivers on flavor, warmth, and comfort. It’s a versatile recipe too—feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in the pantry. The result is always a hearty, delicious meal!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
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4 cups beef broth
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4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup frozen peas
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1 bay leaf
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
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Stir in the beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
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Add the diced potatoes and carrots to the stew. Continue to simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Add the frozen peas, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
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Remove from heat and discard the bay leaf before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Beef and Vegetable Stew: A Hearty and Comforting Dish for All Seasons
Beef and vegetable stew is a classic dish that has been passed down through generations. It’s the kind of recipe that evokes nostalgia, warmth, and a sense of comfort. This dish is not only hearty but also filled with rich flavors from tender beef, savory vegetables, and a wholesome broth. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or serving it to guests on a chilly evening, this stew is always a crowd-pleaser. With its balance of proteins, vegetables, and comforting flavors, it’s a perfect meal to make when you’re craving something hearty yet simple.
The Origins of Beef and Vegetable Stew
Beef stew dates back centuries and is a staple in many cultures around the world. It’s a versatile dish, with various countries putting their own spin on it. Historically, stews were created as a way to cook tougher cuts of meat slowly, making them tender and flavorful. In many cultures, beef and vegetable stews became a standard for a filling, inexpensive meal that could feed large families or communities.
In the United States, beef stew became popular in the early 19th century. During this time, stew was considered a hearty, easy-to-make dish that could stretch ingredients to serve many people. This simple yet delicious recipe has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed today by home cooks and chefs alike.
Why This Beef and Vegetable Stew is the Best
What makes this beef and vegetable stew recipe stand out among others? It’s the combination of fresh, wholesome ingredients and slow cooking that brings out the deepest flavors. The beef stew meat, after being browned and simmered in beef broth, becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. The vegetables, from the earthy potatoes to the sweet carrots and peas, absorb the rich, savory broth, making each bite a comforting experience.
One of the unique aspects of this recipe is the addition of both thyme and rosemary. These aromatic herbs elevate the flavor profile of the stew, adding depth and richness. The subtle heat from crushed red pepper flakes balances the earthiness of the vegetables and beef. It’s a recipe that uses simple, everyday ingredients but combines them in a way that transforms the dish into something extraordinary.
The Nutritional Benefits of Beef and Vegetable Stew
Not only is beef and vegetable stew delicious, but it’s also highly nutritious. The dish offers a balanced mix of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a perfect meal for anyone looking to fuel their body with wholesome ingredients.
- Protein and Iron: The beef provides a rich source of protein and iron, which are essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall energy levels. Iron, in particular, is vital for red blood cell production, and the beef in this stew offers a substantial amount of this mineral.
- Vegetables and Fiber: The carrots, potatoes, and peas in the stew are packed with fiber, which helps maintain healthy digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. Vegetables are also full of essential vitamins, such as vitamin A from carrots, which supports eye health and immune function, and vitamin C from peas, which boosts the immune system.
- Low in Calories: Although hearty and satisfying, this stew is relatively low in calories compared to other comfort food dishes. By focusing on lean beef and vegetables, it provides a nutritious and filling meal without excess fats and sugars.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best things about beef and vegetable stew is that it keeps well for days after it’s made. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch on a Sunday, and you’ll have a filling and nutritious meal ready to go for the entire week.
The stew also freezes very well, so you can store any leftovers in airtight containers and enjoy it weeks later when you’re craving a comforting meal.
A Versatile Recipe
While this beef and vegetable stew recipe is delicious as-is, it’s also highly adaptable. You can experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to make the dish your own. For example, try adding parsnips or turnips for a twist, or use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slight sweetness. If you’re looking to add a bit more depth, throw in a splash of red wine for a richer flavor.
Additionally, this recipe works great for various dietary preferences. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute the beef stew meat for lean cuts like sirloin or even go with turkey for a lighter version. The beauty of this stew lies in its flexibility, so feel free to make it your own!
A Comfort Food for All Occasions
Beef and vegetable stew is the ultimate comfort food, and there are countless occasions where this dish is the perfect fit. On a cold winter’s night, there’s nothing better than sitting down to a steaming bowl of stew, with its rich aroma filling the air. It’s a great dish for family gatherings or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with something both delicious and satisfying.
This stew is also ideal for busy weeknights when you want to prepare a meal that doesn’t require much effort but still delivers on flavor. Simply let the stew simmer away on the stove while you take care of other tasks. By the time it’s ready, you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal that everyone will love.
Healthier Comfort Food
Comfort food often gets a bad reputation for being unhealthy, but this beef and vegetable stew is an exception. By using lean beef and plenty of vegetables, this dish offers a healthier alternative to traditional comfort food. Plus, it doesn’t rely on heavy cream or butter to create its richness. Instead, the depth of flavor comes from the slow simmering of the beef, vegetables, and herbs.
This makes it a great option for those who want to enjoy the comforts of a classic dish without the added guilt of indulgent ingredients. It’s a comforting meal that fits well within a balanced, nutritious diet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, beef and vegetable stew is much more than just a comforting meal—it’s a flavorful, nutritious dish that has stood the test of time. With its perfect balance of protein, fiber, and vegetables, it provides a nourishing meal that is both satisfying and hearty. Its versatility allows for countless variations, ensuring that it remains a go-to recipe for home cooks everywhere. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this beef and vegetable stew is a dish that is sure to delight everyone at the table.
