Ah, nothing quite says comfort like a steaming bowl of Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Beef Stew! I have fond memories of making this dish with my grandmother on chilly Sundays. We would huddle over the stove, the delicious aroma wafting through the house, and she’d share stories from her youth while we patiently waited for the magic to happen. Each spoonful was filled with rich flavors and warmth, just like her hugs. This stew isn’t just food; it’s tradition, heart, and love all simmered together in a pot!
Every time I make this stew, I can’t help but think back to those cozy afternoons. It’s the kind of recipe that’s both satisfying and versatile—easy enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to impress a crowd. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of taking a big ol’ pot of homemade stew out of the oven after a long day. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
## What’s in Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Now, let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish so scrumptious:
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for stewing, as it’s packed with flavor and becomes tender when cooked slowly. I always opt for grass-fed if available; the taste is unbeatable!
Olive Oil: This helps to sear the beef, adding a lovely depth of flavor. I love using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for that burst of richness.
Salt and Pepper: The essentials! They really elevate the flavors of all the ingredients. Don’t be shy—season as you go!
Onion: A diced onion provides a wonderful base for the stew, releasing sweet flavors as it cooks.
Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic! It adds aroma and an irresistible taste to the dish.
Beef Broth: This rich liquid is the backbone of the stew. I prefer low-sodium options so I can control the saltiness.
Tomato Paste: A dollop of tomato paste adds flavor and a comforting depth without making it taste like a tomato stew.
Worcestershire Sauce: It might be a small ingredient, but it packs a punch of umami that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Carrots: Sweet and earthy, these add a pop of color and balance the heartiness of the beef.
Potatoes: I use medium potatoes as they absorb flavors and create a creamy texture when cooked.
Green Beans: These give the stew a crisp texture and a fresh flavor! Plus, they look beautiful against the other ingredients.
Dried Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs introduce warmth and complexity—don’t skip them!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle on top not only looks pretty but adds a fresh touch just before serving.
## Is Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Beef Stew Good for You?
Absolutely, but like everything, moderation is key! This stew boasts a plethora of benefits:
– **Beef:** A great source of protein and iron, which is essential for energy.
– **Vegetables:** Carrots, potatoes, and green beans are full of vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Eating a variety of veggies can help boost your immune system.
– **Herbs and Spices:** Thyme and bay leaf are not just for flavor; they also contain antioxidants.
Now, while this stew is nutritious, it can be rich, especially if you go heavy on the beef. If you’re watching fat intake, you can opt for leaner cuts of beef or even replace some beef with more vegetables. Personally, I like to balance it out with a side salad or some whole-grain bread to help keep things light!
## Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Beef Stew Ingredients
This recipe yields about 6 hearty servings, perfect for family or meal prepping!
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 4 large carrots, sliced
– 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Fresh parsley for garnish
## How to Make Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
1. **Sear the Beef:** In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Work in batches to sear the beef until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the beef and set aside.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables:** In the same pot, toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds.
3. **Simmer the Stew:** Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 hours, savoring the smells!
4. **Add the Vegetables:** After 1.5 hours, toss in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and green beans. Stir everything together, replace the lid, and continue simmering for another 30-45 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the beef is falling apart.
5. **Final Seasoning:** Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t forget to fish out that bay leaf before serving!
6. **Serve:** Ladle the stew into bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve hot, and let that warm, inviting aroma fill the room!
## A Few Little Extras for the Stew Lovers
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding other veggies like peas or parsnips to shake things up! This stew is a fantastic make-ahead option, and in fact, I think it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to mingle together. And don’t forget that crusty bread! It’s perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
I hope you give this Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Beef Stew a try! It’s a hug in a bowl that you’ll want to share with friends and family. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out, so please share your experience with me. Happy stewing, my friends!
