Ingredients

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

Main Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound cubed beef stew meat, trimmed
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can low-fat, low-sodium beef broth
• 3 potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 10 ounces button mushrooms, quartered
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen green peas, thawed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Trim any excess fat from the beef stew meat and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Peel and cube the potatoes, chop the carrots, and thinly slice the onion. Set the prepared vegetables aside.

2. Sear the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and sear on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the thinly sliced onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes to enhance its flavor.

4. Build the Base

Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Stir to combine, ensuring the beef and onions are well-coated in the tomato paste mixture. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Add the Vegetables and Herbs

Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed potatoes, chopped carrots, dried thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, fresh rosemary sprig, and bay leaf. Stir well, cover, and let the stew simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

6. Incorporate the Mushrooms and Peas

After 1 hour, add the quartered button mushrooms to the pot. Continue simmering for another 20–30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Add the thawed green peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

7. Season and Serve

Remove the rosemary sprig and bay leaf before serving. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

The Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew has stood the test of time because it represents everything a comfort food should be. Here’s why this dish is a staple in kitchens around the world:

1. Universal Appeal: Every culture has its version of a hearty stew, from French pot-au-feu to Irish beef stew. This recipe is a celebration of those shared traditions.
2. Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples and fresh vegetables, this dish proves that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or expensive.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, switch up the herbs, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
4. Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this stew is as healthy as it is hearty.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal, beef stew fits the bill, delivering comfort and satisfaction every time.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 540mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the beef and sauté the onions on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

2. What can I substitute for beef broth?

You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a bouillon cube for similar results.

3. Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely. Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

4. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas are a great substitute. Add them during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and texture.

Tips for Making the Perfect Stew

1. Brown the Beef: Searing the beef locks in flavor and enhances the overall depth of the stew. Don’t skip this step!
2. Layer the Flavors: Cook the tomato paste with the onions to bring out its sweetness and complexity.
3. Don’t Rush: Allow the stew to simmer slowly. The low-and-slow cooking method ensures tender beef and flavorful vegetables.
4. Customize the Vegetables: Swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes or add parsnips, turnips, or celery root for variety.
5. Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work, fresh rosemary and thyme add an aromatic freshness that elevates the dish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: This stew freezes exceptionally well. Divide it into individual portions for easy reheating on busy days.
• Reheating: Reheat slowly on the stovetop to maintain the integrity of the ingredients. Add a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened too much.

Conclusion: A Dish That Feels Like Home

The Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew is more than just a recipe; it’s a symbol of togetherness, warmth, and care. Its rich, savory flavors and wholesome ingredients create a dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Each spoonful tells a story of tradition, creativity, and the joy of home cooking.

This stew is not only a meal but an experience. It brings people together, warms the body and soul, and provides nourishment in every sense of the word. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe invites you to savor the process and enjoy the rewards.

So gather your ingredients, fire up your stovetop, and create a pot of stew that will fill your home with delicious aromas and your heart with fond memories. There’s a reason this dish has been passed down through generations—it’s a timeless classic that will always have a place on our tables. Enjoy!