Warm, hearty, and brimming with wholesome flavors, old-fashioned beef stew is a timeless classic that brings comfort with every spoonful. This recipe harks back to traditional cooking methods, where simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish step by step.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 pounds cubed beef stew meat
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups water
2 cups beef broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 cups cubed potatoes
2 cups chopped carrots
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 cup fresh corn kernels
1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup chopped turnip (optional)
2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (optional)
Instructions:
Searing the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the cubed beef stew meat to the pot and sprinkle with all-purpose flour, stirring to coat the beef evenly.
Allow the beef to brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Simmering the Beef:
Once the beef is browned, add water, beef broth, salt, and pepper to the pot.
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Adding Vegetables:
After an hour of simmering, stir in the cubed potatoes, chopped carrots (or turnips), and dried rosemary.
Continue to simmer the stew for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the beef and vegetables are tender and the flavors have developed.
Final Touches:
As the stew nears completion, add the fresh corn kernels and green beans to the pot.
Allow the stew to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to harmonize.
Optional Ingredients:
For additional flavor and texture, consider adding chopped turnips and fresh tomatoes to the stew during the final stages of cooking. These optional ingredients add depth to the dish and can be adjusted according to personal preference.
Serving:
Once the stew is cooked to perfection, serve it hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Pair the old-fashioned beef stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
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Conclusion:
Old-fashioned beef stew is a classic dish that never goes out of style. With its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth, this recipe is a comforting reminder of simpler times. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter’s night or served at a gathering with loved ones, this timeless dish is sure to warm both body and soul. So gather your ingredients, simmer up a pot of goodness, and savor the delicious flavors of homemade old-fashioned beef stew.