beef stew
Beef stew light is comforting yet healthy, with tender meat and vibrant veggies. Try this easy, lighter beef stew recipe at home.
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until the onion is translucent and vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return the browned beef (and any juices) to the pot. Stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste. Mix well to coat the beef and vegetables.
- Pour in the beef broth, and add the potatoes (if using), thyme, black pepper, salt, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.
- Simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is very tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove and discard the bay leaves.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the stew before serving for a touch of freshness.
- Enjoy your Beef Stew Light hot, accompanied by whole wheat bread or a green salad for a healthy meal!
Notes
When it comes to comforting, hearty meals, beef stew is a timeless favorite that works for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Its versatility allows you to play with ingredients, making it lighter or heartier depending on your needs. This lighter beef stew is packed with vibrant vegetables and lean beef, offering big flavor without feeling heavy.
Helpful Tips for a Perfect Beef Stew
- Choose the right cut: Go for lean cuts like rump or shoulder. They become tender after slow cooking and have less fat, which helps keep the dish lighter.
- Browning matters: Take time to properly brown the beef cubes. This step locks in juices and deepens the overall flavor. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure even browning.
- Layer your veggies: Add hearty vegetables like carrots and celery early, but wait to add softer ones (like peas or green beans) until the last 15 minutes if you want more texture and color.
- Save on sodium: Use a low-sodium beef broth, and adjust salt levels at the end. This lets you control the flavor and makes the dish healthier.
- Make it ahead: Stew always tastes better the next day, as flavors meld. Prepare in advance and simply reheat when ready to serve.
Extra Techniques and Ingredient Swaps
- Vegetarian version: Swap beef for mushrooms and add extra beans for protein.
- Thickening the stew: For a richer texture, mash a few potato pieces or add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water about 10 minutes before finishing.
- For a Mediterranean twist: Add olives, capers, or a splash of red wine for extra complexity.
