This Hearty Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes is a rich and savory dish that brings together tender beef, hearty vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes in one perfect meal. The beef is simmered to perfection with a blend of aromatic spices, including paprika, Italian herbs, and bay leaves, creating a deeply flavorful stew. The mashed potatoes, with their velvety texture and buttery richness, complement the stew beautifully. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
For the Beef Stew:
- 800 g (28 oz) beef, cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon black pepper peas
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 carrot, diced
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 5–6 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks green onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons coriander, chopped
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 tablespoons butter (for mashing potatoes)
- 150–200 ml (2/3–3/4 cup) warm milk
Directions
1. 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. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add black pepper peas, bay leaves, and diced carrots, and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Tomatoes and Peppers:
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, red pepper, and yellow pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the tomatoes break down.
4. Season and Simmer:
- Add paprika, Italian herbs, and the browned beef back to the pot. Stir to coat the beef with the seasonings.
- Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer.
- Let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Cook the Potatoes:
- While the stew is simmering, bring a separate pot of water to a boil and add the cubed potatoes.
- Cook the potatoes until tender, about 10–15 minutes. Drain the water and mash the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of butter and 150–200 ml of warm milk.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mashed potatoes should be smooth and creamy.
6. Add Final Touches:
- Stir in the minced garlic, chopped green onion, and coriander into the stew. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
- Serve the hearty beef stew hot, accompanied by the creamy mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with extra coriander or parsley for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve the stew with crusty bread to soak up the rich and flavorful sauce.
- Green Salad: Pair the stew with a light green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
- For Extra Flavor: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for a creamy twist.
- With Pickles: Serve the dish with tangy pickled vegetables to cut through the richness of the beef stew.
Cooking Tips
- Marinate the Beef: For deeper flavor, marinate the beef with salt, pepper, and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the beef absorb more flavors and become more tender.
- Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes give a naturally sweet and tangy flavor to the stew, so be sure to use them for the best taste.
- Adjust the Stew’s Consistency: If the stew becomes too thick, add more water or stock to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken the sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
- Beef: Beef is rich in protein and provides essential vitamins like B12 and iron, which help support muscle growth, blood circulation, and overall vitality.
- Vegetables: The carrots, peppers, and onions provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, which support immune function, eye health, and general well-being.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are a good source of fiber and vitamin C, and they help provide a satisfying, nutrient-packed side.
- Coriander and Garlic: Coriander is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, while garlic can boost the immune system and reduce blood pressure.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Leftovers can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 hours after serving.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: This stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This dish is perfect for cold nights and cozy dinners, offering a warm, comforting meal that’s filling and satisfying.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of paprika, Italian herbs, and fresh vegetables creates a rich, complex flavor that will make this stew a favorite in your household.
- Versatile: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread for a satisfying meal any time of the day.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe serves a large family, making it great for family dinners or when you have guests over.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken, lamb, or pork instead of beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats.
2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After sautéing the beef and vegetables, transfer them to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
3. Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
Yes, you can add peas, green beans, or parsnips for extra vegetables and flavor. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this stew can be made ahead of time. The flavors actually develop better when left to sit for a day, so it’s a great option for meal prep. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use a gluten-free broth or stock if you’re concerned about gluten in the broth.
This Hearty Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes is an easy, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time you’re craving a satisfying meal. With its rich, savory sauce and tender beef, this dish will quickly become a favorite! Enjoy!