Hearty Stew Recipe for Winter Nights

Warm your heart on a chilly evening with this comforting stew! This hearty recipe is perfect for those winter nights when you just want to curl up by the fireplace and enjoy a nourishing meal.

Serving Size: 4 servings

Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours, including prep time.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds beef stew meat
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced into chunks
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

1. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the beef stew meat to the pot, browning it on all sides. This will take approximately 10 minutes total.
3. Once the meat has browned, add the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and allow it to cook for another couple of minutes.
4. Add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender.

Tips for Success

Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your stew will greatly depend on the quality of the beef and vegetables you use. Try to choose cuts of meat that are naturally fatty, as this helps keep the stew moist during cooking.

• For extra flavor, consider adding some red wine or beer to the broth for a richer taste.
• If you have any leftover vegetables from your local market, feel free to add them in. This will create a more complex and flavorful dish.

Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go. Depending on how salty or savory you want the stew to be, add more salt and pepper accordingly. You can also adjust the amount of herbs if needed.

Variations

Looking for something a little different? Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Try substituting part or all of the beef with lamb for a richer flavor and spicier kick.
• Incorporate root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or rutabaga into your stew for extra texture and sweetness.
• Add some red kidney beans to the pot for a heartier, protein-rich meal.

For those who want to make this dish more filling, consider serving the stew over a side of fluffy mashed potatoes or with crusty French bread. A dollop of sour cream on top also adds extra richness and flavor.

Eat Smart: Portion Control and Nutrition

This hearty stew is packed full of vitamins and nutrients that are essential for your well-being. It contains a good amount of protein, fiber, and antioxidants from the vegetables. However, it's important to eat in moderation due to its high fat content. One serving provides approximately 400 calories.

1. Pair your stew with a fresh green salad or some fruit for an even more balanced meal.
2. Instead of butter and cream-based sauces, use reduced-fat versions if you're watching your calorie intake.

Conclusion

This hearty stew recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the comfort food of winter. Whether it's served as a main dish or part of a larger meal, this recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also keep you warm and cozy on those chilly evenings.

To try more recipes like this one, stay tuned for future posts! Enjoy cooking and eating well!