Hearty Stewed Beef Recipe: A Savory Comfort Meal

In today’s fast-paced world, it's easy to fall into the trap of convenience foods and takeout meals. However, cooking a hearty stew like stewed beef can be your go-to solution for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet fulfilling.

This simple recipe for stewed beef is perfect for those who love rich flavors and robust textures in their dishes. Stewed beef, often referred to as osso buco or pot roast, can easily become a family favorite. It's a dish that everyone looks forward to during the cooler months when you want to warm up with delicious comfort food.

For this recipe, we’ll be focusing on a basic stewed beef dish that combines tender meat and savory vegetables in a rich broth. The cooking time is approximately 3 hours for optimal tenderness, and it serves about six people. With minimal ingredients, you can create a feast that will satisfy any palate.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs of beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water or beef broth (about 6 cups)
• Cornstarch for thickening (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large Dutch oven or a slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes until they are browned on all sides. This step is crucial for locking in the flavor and creating that delicious sear.

Once the meat has achieved some color, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped onions to the pot with the remaining fat. Cook until they are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and thyme for added flavor.

Nestle the seared beef back into the pot along with the carrots and enough water or broth to cover everything by an inch. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover and transfer the pot to the oven. Allow it to cook for about 2-1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.

If using a slow cooker, sear the beef and vegetables as instructed above, then transfer them all into your slow cooker, pour in water or broth, add seasonings, cover, and set to low for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender enough that you can easily pull it apart with two forks.

After cooking time is up, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, mix some cornstarch with a little water and stir into the stew just before serving to thicken it up. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for an extra indulgence.

Tips and Variations

To make this dish even more flavorful, consider adding other root vegetables like parsnips or rutabaga for additional depth of flavor. You can also add a splash of red wine towards the end of cooking to enrich the broth. For those who prefer it spicy, a few dashes of hot sauce could be incorporated during the last stages.

The stewed beef is versatile enough to suit various dietary needs too. It's suitable for vegetarians and vegans by simply eliminating the meat component or substituting with plant-based alternatives like seitan or lentils.

Conclusion

This simple yet satisfying stewed beef recipe serves as a delicious reminder of how good home-cooked meals can be. Whether you're looking for a warming dish on a chilly evening, something nutritious to feed your family, or just need a tasty base for leftovers, this hearty stew will not disappoint.

With its straightforward preparation and long-lasting flavor, it's no wonder why this traditional dish continues to be beloved by many. Next time you're craving comfort food that brings out the best of beef's natural flavors, try your hand at making this versatile and delicious stewed beef recipe.