This comforting and flavorful beef and vegetable stew is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for family meals or cozy dinners. Tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs come together to create a delicious, hearty dish.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1.5–2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
- Beef: 800 g (28 oz), cubed
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onions: 3, chopped
- Black Pepper Peas: 1 teaspoon
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Carrot: 1, diced
- Tomatoes: 3, chopped
- Red Pepper: 1, chopped
- Yellow Pepper: 1, chopped
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Italian Herbs: 1 teaspoon
- Potatoes: 5–6, peeled and cubed
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Green Onion: 2 stalks, chopped
- Coriander: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (for mashing potatoes)
- Warm Milk: 150–200 ml (2/3–3/4 cup)
Directions
- Prepare the Beef:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the cubed beef and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add black pepper peas, bay leaves, and diced carrots. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Peppers:
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, red pepper, and yellow pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Season and Simmer:
- Add paprika, Italian herbs, and the browned beef back to the pot.
- Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until the beef is tender.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- In a separate pot, boil the cubed potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with 2 tablespoons of butter and 150–200 ml warm milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Final Touches:
- Stir minced garlic, chopped green onion, and coriander into the stew. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the stew hot, accompanied by the creamy mashed potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with extra coriander or parsley for freshness.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich stew sauce.
- Pair with a green salad for a balanced meal.
Cooking Tips
- For deeper flavor, marinate the beef with salt, pepper, and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for a naturally sweet and tangy flavor.
- Adjust the consistency of the stew by adding more water or stock as needed.
Nutritional Benefits
- Beef: High in protein and essential vitamins like B12 and iron.
- Vegetables: Provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Potatoes: A great source of carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Yes.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 6 g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting: Perfect for chilly days.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and vegetables.
- Flavorful: A rich blend of herbs and spices.
- Versatile: Great for family meals or meal prep.
Conclusion
This hearty beef and vegetable stew is a wholesome dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Try it today for a truly comforting culinary experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, lamb or chicken can be used as alternatives.
- Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
- Absolutely. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours.
- What can I substitute for Italian herbs?
- Use a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
- Can I skip the mashed potatoes?
- Yes, serve the stew with rice, pasta, or bread instead.
- Can I add more vegetables?
- Definitely! Try adding zucchini, peas, or green beans.
- How can I thicken the stew?
- Use a slurry of cornstarch and water or mash some of the potatoes into the stew.
- Is it okay to use canned tomatoes?
- Yes, canned diced tomatoes work well.
- Can I make this recipe ahead?
- Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Can I make it spicy?
- Add red chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.