Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and comforting beef stew, filled with tender chunks of beef, vibrant carrots, and creamy potatoes, perfect for a family dinner.
This beef stew is a beloved family recipe, passed down through generations. It's the perfect dish for cozy nights, filled with rich flavors and comforting textures.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory flavors that warm the soul
- Tender beef that melts in your mouth
- Packed with nutritious vegetables for a complete meal
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of beef stew to wrap you in comfort. This Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes is designed to nourish both body and soul, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The rich flavors meld together beautifully as the stew simmers, allowing the savory aromas to fill your kitchen.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender beef, vibrant carrots, and creamy potatoes creates a well-rounded meal that can stand on its own. Serve it with a side of crusty bread, and you've got a feast that will please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
Cooking Tips for a Delicious Stew
To achieve the best flavor in your beef stew, browning the beef is crucial. This step not only develops a deep, rich color but also enhances the overall taste of the dish. Take your time during this process—don’t rush it. A well-browned piece of meat can elevate your stew from good to outstanding.
Additionally, feel free to customize your vegetable selection based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Adding peas, celery, or even mushrooms can provide different textures and flavors that complement the beef and potatoes beautifully. Experimenting with the ingredients allows you to make this stew your own.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, you're in for a treat! Beef stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing your stew. It can last in the freezer for up to three months when properly sealed.
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in a microwave, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much. This will help restore its creamy texture. Enjoy your delicious stew again with the same warmth and comfort as the first time you served it.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for the best results.
Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the Stew
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Serve
Once the stew is done, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Enjoy your delicious beef stew with family and friends!
Nutritional Benefits
This beef stew is not just a treat for your taste buds; it's also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a great source of protein and iron, essential for maintaining energy and building muscles. The carrots and potatoes add vitamins and minerals, making this a well-rounded meal that keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
In addition, the use of fresh vegetables ensures you're getting dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes overall health. This stew is a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this beef stew with a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot. The wine's tannins and fruity notes complement the savory flavors of the stew beautifully. If wine isn’t your preference, a hearty non-alcoholic beverage like ginger ale or a sparkling apple cider can also be delightful.
For side dishes, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew, adding freshness to your meal. Alternatively, serve with some warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth—perfect for those chilly evenings at home.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ How can I thicken the stew?
You can thicken the stew by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water or by mashing some of the potatoes.
→ Can I freeze the beef stew?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with beef stew?
Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad.
Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes
A hearty and comforting beef stew, filled with tender chunks of beef, vibrant carrots, and creamy potatoes, perfect for a family dinner.
Created by: Sabrina Holt
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Once the stew is done, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g