Introduction:
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of hearty beef stew on a chilly evening. This recipe, cooked in a red cast iron pot, is packed with tender beef chuck, baby carrots, potatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this stew is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy to make and even easier to clean up!
- Comfort Food: Perfect for cold weather or when you need a cozy meal.
- Flavor-Packed: Aromatic herbs, red wine, and smoked paprika add depth of flavor.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 3 whole baby carrots
- 3 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a red cast iron pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides, then set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Return the beef to the pot.
- Simmer: Cover and simmer on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add Vegetables: Add baby carrots and potatoes, then cook for another 30-40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Remove bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Serve hot with crusty bread. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew:
- Choose the Right Cut: Beef chuck is ideal for stews because it becomes tender when slow-cooked.
- Deglaze the Pot: Scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pot adds incredible flavor.
- Low and Slow: Simmering the stew slowly ensures the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Make It Ahead: Stews taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread or buttered rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
Nutritional Benefits:
This hearty beef stew is not only delicious but also nutritious:
- Protein: Beef chuck provides a hearty dose of protein.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots and potatoes add vitamins A, C, and potassium.
- Comforting and Filling: Perfect for satisfying hunger on cold days.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sear the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I freeze beef stew?
A: Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I use instead of red wine?
A: You can substitute with additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor.
Conclusion:
This hearty beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. Made in a red cast iron pot, it’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us.