Hearty Homemade Beef Stew Recipe

 

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade beef stew simmering gently on the stove. This classic dish has been loved for generations because of its rich flavor, tender meat, and wholesome vegetables. Each spoonful delivers melt-in-your-mouth beef, soft golden potatoes, and sweet carrots, all wrapped in a deep, savory broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you're cooking for your family on a chilly evening or preparing a satisfying weekend meal, beef stew is always a perfect choice.

What makes this stew special is the slow cooking process, which allows the beef to become incredibly tender while the vegetables absorb all the delicious flavors of the broth. The combination of herbs, spices, and natural juices creates a hearty and nourishing meal that feels both rustic and comforting. Plus, it’s simple to prepare using basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

This recipe is ideal for beginners and experienced cooks alike. With just a little patience, you’ll create a rich and flavorful stew that tastes even better the next day. Serve it with fresh bread, rice, or enjoy it on its own for a complete and satisfying dish.

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Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (700 g) beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)

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Instructions

1. Brown the beef
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook for 4–6 minutes until browned on all sides. This step adds deep flavor to the stew.

2. Cook the aromatics
   Add chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Build the base
   Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well to coat the beef.

4. Add the liquid
   Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.

5. Simmer slowly
   Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender.

6. Add vegetables
   Add potatoes and carrots. Cover and simmer for another 25–30 minutes until vegetables are soft and beef is fully tender.

7. Thicken the stew (optional)
   If you want a thicker stew, mix flour with a little water and stir it in. Cook for 5 more minutes.

8. Finish and serve
   Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread
• Pair with rice or mashed potatoes
• Perfect for lunch or dinner
• Tastes even better the next day

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Tips for Best Results

• Use slow cooking for extra tender beef
• Don’t skip browning the meat
• Add peas or celery for extra flavor
• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days

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This hearty beef stew is rich, comforting, and full of deep homemade flavor. Once you try it, it will become one of your favorite classic recipes.