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A bowl of classic beef stew with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Classic Beef Stew

A traditional beef stew with tender chunks of beef and hearty vegetables in a rich, savory broth.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For browning beef and simmering stew
  • 1 Wooden Spoon For stirring
  • 1 Knife For chopping vegetables
  • 1 Cutting board For preparing ingredients

Ingredients
  

Beef Stew

  • 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 3 potatoes diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup red wine optional
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and brown the beef in batches. Remove the beef and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
  • Deglaze the pot with red wine if using, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
  • Return the beef to the pot, add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook slowly for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
  • Add the carrots and potatoes, and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes until the vegetables are cooked through. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Keyword Beef Stew, Comfort Food, winter recipes