Nothing says comfort food quite like a Rustic Beef Stew with Carrots, Olives, and Rosemary. This dish is packed with rich flavors, thanks to seared beef, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, all simmered together for the ultimate cozy, hearty meal. The addition of carrots adds a sweet earthiness, while the olives give a delightful briny twist. Infused with rosemary and thyme, this stew has all the savory depth you crave, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings and family dinners.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup pitted green or black olives
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions for Preparing Rustic Beef Stew with Carrots, Olives, and Rosemary
Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef
Start by seasoning the beef cubes generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing until browned on all sides. This step will help lock in the rich flavors. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. This will release the natural sweetness of the onions and garlic, creating a flavorful base for the stew.
Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Stew Base
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes to allow the paste to caramelize slightly, which will deepen the flavor. Pour in 1 cup of red wine, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Let the wine simmer for about 3–5 minutes to reduce slightly, infusing the stew with its rich, full-bodied flavor.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the beef cubes to the pot. Add 2 cups of beef broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes, carrots, olives, rosemary, bay leaves, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients. The olives will add a burst of briny flavor, while the rosemary and thyme will infuse the broth with fresh, earthy undertones.
Step 5: Simmer the Stew
Bring the stew to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 2–2 ½ hours, stirring occasionally. The beef should become incredibly tender and the flavors will meld beautifully together. The carrots will soften and infuse the broth with their sweetness.
Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can make a flour slurry. Mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the stew and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the broth.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Remove the rosemary sprigs and bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a vibrant touch and a bit of freshness to the dish.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the stew hot with your favorite side dishes, such as crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice. The rich, savory stew pairs wonderfully with simple sides that can absorb the flavorful broth.
Tips for the Perfect Rustic Beef Stew
- Browning the Beef: Don’t skip the searing step—it creates a flavorful crust on the beef that adds depth to the stew.
- Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with additional beef broth or apple cider vinegar to add some acidity and balance the stew.
- Olives: The green olives will lend a tangy, briny flavor, while black olives provide a milder taste. Feel free to use one or both depending on your preference.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, you can transfer all the ingredients into a slow cooker after searing the beef. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the beef is tender.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 ½ hours
- Total Time: 2 ¾ hours
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different cut of beef?
While beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its tenderness and flavor, you can also use round or brisket. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if using a leaner cut.
Can I freeze the stew?
Yes, this stew freezes very well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors improve after sitting for a day or two. Store the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add parsnips, potatoes, or celery to the stew for extra texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking time for different vegetables.
Conclusion
Rustic Beef Stew with Carrots, Olives, and Rosemary is the ultimate cozy dish that blends tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich Mediterranean flavors into one satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it for a family gathering, this stew is sure to impress. With its deep, savory flavors and tender ingredients, it’s a recipe that will become a staple in your home.