Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender beef chunks, hearty vegetables, and a rich blend of herbs and spices. This classic dish warms the soul and satisfies the appetite, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Why I Love This Recipe
This stew achieves the ideal thickness by incorporating cornstarch in two stages. The harmonious combination of allspice, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce imparts a distinctive depth of flavor that elevates it above standard beef stews. Additionally, the inclusion of pearl onions introduces a subtle sweetness and unique texture that enhance the overall experience.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Beef stew meat
- Cornstarch
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Red potatoes
- Pearl onions
- Carrots
- Celery
- Tomato paste
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Dried parsley
- Paprika
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Black pepper
- Ground allspice
- Bay leaf
Directions
- Coat the beef stew meat with half of the cornstarch.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the beef and sear for about 2 minutes on each side.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Add the red potatoes, pearl onions, carrots, celery, and tomato paste.
- Season with salt, sugar, dried parsley, paprika, oregano, basil, black pepper, and allspice. Add the bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 90 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cook over low heat until the stew thickens.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. The total preparation and cooking time is about 2 hours and 20 minutes, with 20 minutes dedicated to prep and 2 hours for cooking.
Variations
- Meat Options: Substitute beef with lamb or chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as peas, green beans, or mushrooms to enhance the stew’s heartiness.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to introduce new aromatic elements.
Storage and Reheating
Allow the stew to cool to room temperature before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.
FAQs
What cut of beef is best for this stew?
I recommend using chuck roast, as it becomes tender when slow-cooked. Alternatively, cuts like bottom round, top round, or brisket work well.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, after searing the beef and sautéing the garlic, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Is it necessary to use pearl onions?
While I find that pearl onions add a unique sweetness and texture, you can substitute them with roughly chopped white or yellow onions if unavailable.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses cornstarch for thickening instead of flour.
What can I serve alongside this beef stew?
I enjoy pairing this stew with crusty bread like homemade French bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a favorite for many. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly day or a fulfilling meal to share with loved ones, this stew is sure to please.
Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a comforting classic made with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory blend of herbs and spices. Perfect for chilly evenings or family dinners, this rich and flavorful dish is a must-try! Keywords: Old Fashioned Beef Stew, classic beef stew recipe, comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (divided)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 lb red potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup pearl onions
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Coat the beef stew meat with half of the cornstarch.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and sear for 2 minutes per side.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Deglaze the pot with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add red potatoes, pearl onions, carrots, celery, and tomato paste.
- Season with salt, sugar, parsley, paprika, oregano, basil, black pepper, and allspice. Add the bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 90 minutes.
- Mix remaining cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Stir into the stew and cook until thickened.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Add mushrooms or green beans for more vegetables.
- This stew can be made in a slow cooker by transferring all ingredients after searing the beef.
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