Ingredients Needed to Make Beef Stew Recipe
If you're looking for a comforting and filling meal, beef stew is a great option. Here are the ingredients you'll need:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 2 cups chopped potatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Marinade Beef Stew Recipe
Before you start cooking the stew, it's important to marinate the beef. Here's a simple marinade recipe:
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Add the beef chunks and stir to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Beef Stew Recipe
Here are the kitchen tools you'll need to make beef stew:
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Bowl for marinating
How to Make Beef Stew Recipe
Now that you have all the ingredients and tools, it's time to start cooking. Here's how to make beef stew:
- Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the marinade.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Cook for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Cook Beef Stew Recipe
Once your beef stew is cooked, it's time to serve and enjoy. Here are some tips for cooking and serving beef stew:
- Let the stew cool down for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes, you can cook beef stew in a slow cooker instead of the oven. Simply follow the same steps to prepare the stew, then transfer it to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
2. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use a different cut of beef for this recipe. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut you choose.
3. Can I freeze beef stew?
Yes, you can freeze beef stew for up to 3 months. Simply transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to the stew, such as celery or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
5. Can I make beef stew in advance?
Yes, you can make beef stew in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before reheating and serving.
6. What should I serve with beef stew?
Beef stew goes well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
7. How can I thicken the stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or flour and water to the pot about 30 minutes before the stew is done cooking.
8. Can I make beef stew without wine?
Yes, you can make beef stew without wine. Simply omit the wine from the marinade and use an extra cup of beef broth in the recipe.
9. How do I know when the stew is done cooking?
The stew is done cooking when the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. You can check by poking the beef with a fork to see if it's easily shreddable.
10. Can I make beef stew in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can make beef stew in a pressure cooker. Follow the same steps to prepare the stew, then cook on high pressure for 35-40 minutes, depending on the size of your beef chunks.
11. How long does beef stew keep in the refrigerator?
Beef stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
12. Can I use beef broth instead of beef stock?
Yes, you can use beef broth instead of beef stock. However, the flavor may be slightly different.
13. Can I use canned vegetables?
While fresh vegetables are preferred for this recipe, you can use canned vegetables if you don't have fresh ones on hand.
14. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat for this recipe, such as lamb or pork. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the type of meat you choose.
15. Can I make beef stew in a cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can make beef stew in a cast iron skillet. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
16. Can I make beef stew without potatoes?
Yes, you can make beef stew without potatoes. Simply omit the potatoes from the recipe or substitute with another vegetable, such as sweet potatoes or parsnips.
17. Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of this recipe.
18. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried. However, you may need to adjust the amount to taste.
19. Can I add red wine to the stew?
Yes, you can add red wine to the stew for extra flavor. Simply add the wine to the pot along with the beef broth and other ingredients.
20. Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make beef stew in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps to prepare the stew, then transfer it to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.