Hearty Beef Stew with Bell Peppers and Potatoes: A Comforting Classic

Beef stew is the ultimate comfort food that warms you up from the inside out, especially when the weather turns chilly. This hearty Beef Stew with Bell Peppers and Potatoes combines tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and creamy potatoes in a savory broth, creating a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, cozy weekends, or a special occasion.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the recipe, provide tips for making the best beef stew, explore different variations, and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: This stew packs a punch with the addition of smoked paprika and cumin, giving it a unique depth of flavor.
• Comforting: Tender beef, potatoes, and vegetables all simmered together in a savory broth create the ultimate comfort food.
• Easy to Make: Despite being a one-pot dish, this stew is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any fancy cooking skills.
• Versatile: You can customize the stew by adding different vegetables or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
  Use well-marbled beef stew meat such as chuck roast or round. These cuts are ideal for slow cooking and become tender and juicy after simmering.
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  For browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 large onion, diced
  A classic base for any stew, onion brings sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
  Garlic adds a savory punch that complements the richness of the beef.
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), chopped
  These peppers add color, sweetness, and a subtle crunch to the stew. You can mix and match colors depending on what you have available.
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  Potatoes are perfect for stews because they soak up the broth, making the dish hearty and satisfying. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe.
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  The tomatoes help create a rich base for the broth, adding acidity and a touch of sweetness to balance the stew.
• 4 cups beef broth
  Beef broth is the foundation of the stew’s flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute with vegetable broth, though it will change the flavor slightly.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
  This spice gives the stew a mild smokiness that enhances the other flavors and adds depth.
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  Cumin adds warmth and earthiness to the stew, pairing beautifully with the beef and smoked paprika.
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Essential for seasoning the stew and bringing all the flavors together.

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley
  For a pop of color and freshness to brighten up the dish.

Directions: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

1. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the cubed beef stew meat to the pot in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and the onion begins to soften.

3. Cook the Bell Peppers

1. Add the chopped bell peppers to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

4. Add the Beef and Seasonings

1. Return the browned beef to the pot.
2. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 45 minutes, uncovered, to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Add the Potatoes

1. After 45 minutes, add the peeled and cubed potatoes to the pot.
2. Stir well and continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the beef is cooked through.

6. Final Touches and Serve

1. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
2. Serve the stew hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This beef stew is hearty and filling on its own, but you can elevate the meal with these perfect side dishes:

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the delicious broth.
• Rice: Serve the stew over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to make it even more satisfying.
• Side Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the stew.

Pro Tips for Perfect Beef Stew

1. Use a Heavy Pot: A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for slow-cooking stews because it ensures even heat distribution and prevents burning.
2. Brown the Beef in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the beef. This allows the meat to sear properly and develop a rich, caramelized flavor.
3. Simmer Low and Slow: Patience is key when making stew. Letting it simmer for a longer period will result in tender beef and more flavorful broth.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the stew gets too thick during cooking, you can add more beef broth or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Make Ahead: Stews often taste even better the next day! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with the recipe by adding different vegetables or spices:

• Vegetables: Add carrots, celery, or parsnips for additional flavor and nutrition.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves make wonderful additions to the broth.
• Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Yes, you can! Brown the beef in a skillet first, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked.

2. What type of beef is best for stew?

Chuck roast is the ideal cut for beef stew because it’s marbled with fat, which becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. You can also use round or brisket, but chuck roast yields the best results.

3. Can I use chicken or pork instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or pork. For chicken, use boneless thighs for a juicy, flavorful option. Pork shoulder or pork stew meat works well as a substitute for beef in this recipe.

4. How can I thicken the stew?

If the stew is too thin, you can thicken it by mashing some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher and stirring it into the broth. Alternatively, make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then adding it to the stew and simmering until thickened.

5. Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding more broth if needed.

6. How can I make this stew spicier?

To make the stew spicier, you can add a diced jalapeño, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce while it simmers.

7. What’s the best way to serve this stew?

Serve it with a hearty side of crusty bread, steamed rice, or a simple green salad. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added richness.

Conclusion

This Beef Stew with Bell Peppers and Potatoes is a perfect dish for chilly days, family dinners, or any time you crave a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. With tender beef, savory vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Whether you make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or ahead of time for meal prep, this stew is versatile and always delicious. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that will warm both your body and soul.

 

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