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beef stew

beef stew

Beef stew with vegetables for a cozy, healthy meal. Discover how this classic keeps all the flavor with fewer calories.
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Total Time 2 hours 31 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 325
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 800 g beef (chuck or similar) cut into large cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
  • 2 unit onions chopped
  • 3 clove garlic minced
  • 2 unit carrots diced
  • 2 unit potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup celery sliced
  • 2 unit tomato chopped
  • 500 ml beef broth low sodium
  • 1 unit bay leaf
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp salt to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tbsp parsley chopped, for serving

Method
 

  1. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Let it rest for 5 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, browning all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, celery, and tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
  5. Pour in the beef broth. Add bay leaf, thyme, and paprika. Mix gently and bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are soft.
  7. Check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  8. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve hot, enjoying your comforting beef stew!

Notes

Beef stew is a timeless classic celebrated for its comfort and versatility. Whether you crave a warm meal on a chilly night or need a make-ahead dish for family gatherings, this stew adapts beautifully to many occasions. Its simplicity does not limit its depth of flavor—carefully selected cuts and slow cooking make all the difference.

Smart Tips for a Flavorful Stew

  • Choose well-marbled beef (such as chuck or brisket) for more tender and juicy bites. Leaner cuts may dry out despite long simmering.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, sear the beef in small batches to avoid steaming the meat—browned bits at the bottom of the pot add great taste!
  • You can swap vegetables based on the season or your preferences. Try adding parsnips, turnips, or even sweet potatoes for a twist.
  • No beef broth? Water with a spoonful of tomato paste and a dash of soy sauce can work as a quick substitute.

Preparation Techniques

  • For a thicker stew, mash a few cooked potatoes into the broth or dissolve a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch in water and stir in during the final 10 minutes of simmering.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even heating, helping prevent burns and sticking.
  • If you’re short on time, this recipe adapts well to a pressure cooker—reduce cooking time to about 35-40 minutes under pressure.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

This beef stew shines served with crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the savory broth. For a lighter meal, enjoy it with a fresh green salad. Leftovers also taste even better the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option.
Want to experiment? Add a splash of red wine with the broth for complexity, or toss in a handful of frozen peas right before serving for color and sweetness.