Old Fashioned Beef Stew

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich blend of herbs and spices, this stew is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. It’s versatile enough to serve as a weeknight dinner or as a centerpiece for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This stew is packed with protein-rich beef and nutritious vegetables, making it a filling meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is suitable for cooks of any skill level.
• Flavorful Depth: The combination of seasonings and broth creates a rich, savory flavor that enhances every bite.
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to your taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Old Fashioned Beef Stew, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, ensuring even heat distribution for tender beef.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping to combine ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measurements leads to the best flavors in your stew.

Ingredients

This Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and all the right herbs and spices.

For the Beef Stew

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Vegetables

• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 10 ounces pearl onions
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 cup cold water

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Dust 2 pounds of cubed chuck roast with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear for about 5 minutes until all sides are browned, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze & Combine Ingredients

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add diced potatoes, pearl onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon granulated sugar along with dried basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and ground allspice. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 90 to 120 minutes while stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until dissolved. Slowly pour this mixture into the stew while stirring constantly. Cook on low heat for a few more minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Taste your stew and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Serving Old Fashioned Beef Stew is all about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting texture. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the stew and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Homemade Dinner Rolls – Soft, fluffy rolls make a great accompaniment, ideal for mopping up every last bit of stew.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef stew.
• Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten the meal.

Include Some Vegetables

• Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steamed green beans add color and a nutritious element alongside the stew.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These provide a caramelized flavor that complements the richness of the beef stew.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Perfecting your Old Fashioned Beef Stew takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe.

• Choose Quality Meat – Use well-marbled beef chuck for tender chunks that melt in your mouth.
• Sear the Meat Well – Browning the beef before simmering adds depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish’s aroma and taste.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Taste as you go and adjust seasoning at different stages for balanced flavor.
• Simmer Slowly – Allowing enough time for simmering helps break down tough fibers in the meat, resulting in tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Old Fashioned Beef Stew enhances your meal experience. Here are some top choices to consider.

1. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for soaking up the stew’s juices.
2. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf adds a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the savory stew.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful balance to the rich flavors of beef stew.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables – A mix of carrots, parsnips, and turnips roasted until caramelized provides added sweetness and texture.
5. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the broth while adding aromatic flavor.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness that cuts through the heaviness of the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old Fashioned Beef Stew, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can impact the final dish.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the meat before browning can lead to bland stew. Always season your beef with salt and pepper beforehand for maximum flavor.
• Bold cut selection: Using the wrong cut of beef can affect tenderness. Choose chuck roast, as it becomes tender during slow cooking while adding rich flavor.
• Bold boiling: Boiling the stew instead of simmering can make the meat tough. After bringing it to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for the best texture.
• Bold vegetable prep: Cutting vegetables unevenly leads to uneven cooking. Chop potatoes and carrots into similar sizes for consistent doneness.
• Bold thickening method: Adding cornstarch directly to the pot can create clumps. Always mix it with water first to ensure a smooth consistency in your stew.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer servings to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place stew in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Old Fashioned Beef Stew.

How long does Old Fashioned Beef Stew take to cook?

Old Fashioned Beef Stew typically takes about 120 minutes of cooking time, allowing the meat to become tender and flavorful.

Can I add other vegetables to Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Yes! Feel free to customize your stew by adding vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms according to your preferences.

What is the best beef cut for Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Chuck roast is highly recommended due to its ideal fat content and flavor profile, ensuring a rich and tender stew.

Can I make Old Fashioned Beef Stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To prepare it in a slow cooker, sear the beef first, then add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and tender chunks of beef make it a beloved classic. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Enjoy this warm meal with family or friends!