Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew

Introduction

Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew is a warm and comforting dish that brings the family together. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew is filled with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth. It's like a big hug in a bowl!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is fantastic for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. It's not only delicious but also easy to make. Plus, it allows you to use simple, everyday ingredients that you likely have at home. Once you try this stew, your loved ones will ask for it again and again!

How to Make Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew

To make Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew, follow these simple steps. Get ready to enjoy a mouth-watering meal that will warm your heart.

Ingredients:

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
3 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup dry red wine
4 cups beef broth
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 stalks celery, sliced
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

Season the beef cubes with salt and black pepper. Dust them lightly with flour, shaking off any excess.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, carrots, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew

Serve the stew warm in deep bowls. It goes wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes. Don't forget to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch!

How to Store Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew

You can store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Tips to Make Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew

For even more flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
If you like it spicy, add a dash of red pepper flakes.
Make sure to sear the beef well for a richer taste.

Variation

You can easily tweak this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes or peas. You can also use different types of mushrooms or substitute the beef for chicken or pork.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but they may vary in texture and cooking time.

2. Is there a way to make this stew quicker?
You can use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking time. Just follow the same steps and cook it for about 45 minutes under pressure.

3. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors get better after sitting for a day in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.