As winter settles in and the chilly temperatures linger, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty bowl of beef stew. This classic dish is perfect for January, a time when we crave nourishing meals that bring warmth to our homes. The rich, savory flavors of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs make this stew a favorite among many during the coldest months.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 large carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds great depth of flavor)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup flour (for thickening)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Brown the Beef: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, letting the paste caramelize slightly to deepen the flavor.
Deglaze the Pot: If using, pour in the red wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will add flavor to your stew.
Add Broth and Seasonings: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer the Stew: Once the stew reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
Thicken the Stew: To thicken the stew, mix 1/4 cup of flour with a little water to form a smooth paste. Gradually stir the paste into the stew and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the stew has thickened to your liking.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the stew in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
This beef stew is the ultimate comfort food for January, offering rich flavors and hearty ingredients that will keep you warm and satisfied. It also makes for great leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop and deepen with each passing day.
