Hearty Homemade Beef and Vegetable Stew: A Comforting Classic

If you’re looking for an easy Beef and vegetable stew recipe that brings warmth and flavor to your table, you’re in the right place. This homemade Beef and vegetable stew from scratch is not only rich in taste but also packed with nutrients and hearty ingredients, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Originating from traditional cooking, this dish has been a staple for families around the world, offering comforting flavors and versatility. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a regular Sunday dinner, this stew promises to please everyone at the table.

This stew features tender beef simmered with fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, transforming humble ingredients into something spectacular. Not a meat-lover? Don’t worry! We’ve included tips for a delicious vegan Beef and vegetable stew version that even the most dedicated carnivores will enjoy. Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe that brings together the essence of home cooking!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty beef and vegetable stew:

For the Stew:

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegan option)
2 large carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or vegan alternative)

Ingredient Swaps:

Use stew meat from your favorite cut, such as brisket or round.
For a heartier flavor, substitute beef broth with red wine.
Consider using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter profile.

Equipment List

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving ladle
Glass or heatproof jars for storing leftovers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides (about 5-7 minutes) until a rich, golden crust forms. This step adds an incredible depth of flavor!
Sauté the Aromatics: Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add diced onion and celery, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing its fragrant aroma.
Deglaze the Pot: Return the beef to the pot and pour in 4 cups of beef broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this adds flavor to your stew!
Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in diced potatoes, carrots, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer the Stew: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 1 hour. This slow cooking process will make the beef tender and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finish with Peas: After an hour of simmering, add the frozen peas to the stew. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes until the peas are heated through. The vibrant green color of the peas will enhance the visual appeal of your dish!
Serve and Enjoy: Remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and savor the rich aroma and warmth of your homemade creation.

Special Notes

Storing: If you have leftovers, let the stew cool completely. Store it in glass jars or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Troubleshooting: If you find that the stew has become too thick during cooking, you can easily adjust the consistency by adding a splash more broth or water as desired. For additional flavor, a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the stew!

Variations and Customizations

This beef and vegetable stew is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment!

Vegan Version: For a vegan Beef and vegetable stew, replace beef with cubed mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth. The same cooking steps apply.
Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure that any broth or sauce ingredients used are clearly marked gluten-free.
Herb Variations: Consider incorporating fresh herbs like parsley and basil as a garnish before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving:

Calories: 350
Protein: 40g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g

Engaging Visual Details

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its appearance. As you cook, the vibrant colors of fresh carrots, green peas, and hearty potatoes will create a stunningly inviting stew. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will undoubtedly have your family gathering eagerly around the table for a heartwarming meal. Enhance your recipe post with images showing each preparation stage—browning the beef, sautéing the vegetables, and finally, the steaming bowls of finished stew. If possible, include short video clips of the stirring and serving for a dynamic touch!

Conclusion

This hearty homemade Beef and vegetable stew is not just a meal but a warm embrace in a bowl. We invite you to try this easy and versatile recipe, whether you’re sticking with tradition or exploring vegan options. Your kitchen is bound to fill with rich, comforting aromas, and the end result will surely impress your family and friends. If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment below and share your version on Instagram with the tag MyDeliciousDish. We can’t wait to see how your stew turned out!

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