Name: Beef Stew Recipe with Carrots & Potatoes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 210 min
Total time: 240 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch pieces (well-marbled); 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 medium yellow onions, cut into 1-inch chunks; 7 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1.5 tablespoons tomato paste; 0.25 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups dry red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 2 cups water; 1 leaf bay leaf; 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme; 1.5 teaspoons sugar; 4 large carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks on a diagonal (peeled); 1 pound small white boiling potatoes (baby yukons), cut in half; Fresh chopped parsley (for serving (optional))

Introduction to Beef Stew Recipe with Carrots and Potatoes

When chilly evenings roll in, nothing feels more comforting than a warm bowl of beef stew recipe with carrots and potatoes. This hearty dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience—an opportunity to unwind after a long day and savor the flavors of home-cooked comfort.

Why is Beef Stew a Favorite for Young Professionals?

For young professionals juggling busy schedules, the appeal of beef stew lies in its simplicity and versatility. As you prepare this one-pot wonder, you can multitask—chat with friends, catch up on your favorite show, or even tackle some work emails while the flavors simmer away. Plus, beef stew is ideal for meal prep; it stores beautifully in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, saving you time for the week ahead.

With minimally intensive prep work and a long cooking time that allows for deeper flavors, this stew practically cooks itself. You’ll love how the rich aroma envelops your home, inviting you to gather at the dinner table more often. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you’ve made a dish that will please everyone? If you’re ready, let’s dive into this delicious beef stew recipe!

For expert cooking tips, be sure to check out Food Network for ideas on enhancing your stew even further.

Ingredients for Beef Stew Recipe

What you'll need for a hearty beef stew

Creating a delicious beef stew recipe with carrots & potatoes is all about choosing the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for a truly comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

3 pounds boneless beef chuck: Look for well-marbled pieces, as they add flavor and tenderness.
2 teaspoons salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the beef and vegetables.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth.
3 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the beef and creating depth in flavor.
2 medium yellow onions: They provide a sweet base and hearty texture.
7 cloves garlic: Adds aromatic goodness! Feel free to adjust based on your preference.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Balances the richness of the meat.
1½ tablespoons tomato paste: A thickener that also enriches the flavor.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: For that slight thickness we all love in a stew.

Explore more about ingredient selection on sites like Serious Eats or Food Network for tips on making your stew even better!

Don’t forget about the carrots and potatoes—they add color and make the dish truly satisfying. Happy cooking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Beef Stew

Creating the perfect beef stew recipe with carrots and potatoes is not only satisfying but also an experience that fills your kitchen with rich, inviting aromas. Let’s walk through the steps together to ensure that your stew turns out beautifully!

Prep your ingredients

Preparation is key to a smooth cooking process. Start by gathering all your ingredients:

Meat: 3 pounds of boneless beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch pieces.
Seasonings: 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
Aromatics: 2 medium yellow onions, 7 cloves of garlic, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste.
Liquid components: All-purpose flour, broth, and water.
Herbs and veggies: Bay leaf, dried thyme, sugar, 4 large carrots, and baby yukon potatoes.

Make sure to wash, peel, and chop your vegetables ahead of time. This not only makes cooking smoother but allows you to appreciate the fresh ingredients.

Sear the beef to perfection

Searing the beef is crucial for flavor. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. After patting the beef dry and seasoning it with salt and pepper, cook it in batches, allowing it to develop a beautiful brown crust—about 5 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pot; give each piece space to shine. Question: Do you hear that satisfying sizzle? That’s the sound of flavor building!

Sauté aromatics for flavor

Once the beef is out of the pot, it’s time to create a flavor base. With the remaining oils and the brown bits still in the pot, toss in your chopped onions and smashed garlic. Stir these together, scraping the bottom to release those caramelized flavors. After a few minutes, add the balsamic vinegar and tomato paste, cooking them for a little longer until the aroma wafts through your kitchen.

Building the stew

Now, let's bring the stew together! Add the browned beef back into the pot, sprinkle with flour, and stir everything until the flour has dissolved. This flour will help thicken the stew as it cooks. Then, pour in the beef broth and water, adding the bay leaf, thyme, and a touch of sugar to balance flavors. Stir well, bring it to a boil, then cover your pot and transfer it to the oven. This slow-braising step (about 2 hours) will create tender, mouth-watering beef.

Add the veggies and finish cooking

After two hours, it’s time for the showstoppers: the vegetables! Add the carrots and baby yukon potatoes to the mix, cover the pot, and let it bask in the oven for another hour. This will allow the vegetables to absorb the flavorful broth while cooking perfectly. Check in on your stew; it should be thick, hearty, and full of flavor. Once done, fish out the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.

And there you have it! A delicious beef stew recipe with carrots and potatoes that’s sure to be a favorite. Enjoy it warm, and don’t forget—this dish often tastes even better the next day! For inspiration on variations, check out How to Customize Your Stews to take it to the next level!

Variations on Beef Stew Recipe

A Twist with Sweet Potatoes

For an exciting twist on your beef stew recipe with carrots and potatoes, consider swapping regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. They not only add a subtle sweetness but also provide a nutritional boost—packed with vitamins A and C. Just peel and chop sweet potatoes into chunks, and add them with the carrots for a delightful flavor fusion. Sweet potatoes cook relatively quickly, so you might want to keep an eye on them to avoid mushiness.

Adding Seasonal Vegetables for Variety

Enhance your beef stew by incorporating seasonal vegetables. Parsnips, turnips, or even green beans work wonderfully alongside carrots and potatoes. These variations can provide unique flavors and textures, making each stew a delightful experience. Consider exploring what’s fresh at your local farmer's market for some inspiration! Mixing in seasonal produce not only supports local agriculture but can also elevate the nutritional profile of your meal; talk about a win-win!

For more tasty ideas, check out the seasonal vegetable guides from Food Network or USDA!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Beef Stew

Best practices for flavor enhancement

To elevate your beef stew recipe with carrots & potatoes to new heights, consider these handy tips:

Sear the meat well: Browning the beef enhances its flavor through the Maillard reaction, contributing depth to your stew.
Use homemade broth: If possible, opt for homemade broth; it amplifies the overall taste. Here’s a great guide on making broth if you're interested!
Seasoning is key: Taste your stew as it cooks, adjusting salt, pepper, and herbs to ensure it’s brimming with flavor.
Fresh herbs at the end: Adding a splash of fresh herbs, like parsley, just before serving gives a bright, vibrant finish that contrasts beautifully with the rich stew.

These simple tweaks can transform your stew from good to phenomenal! Enjoy the process and have fun with the ingredients!

Serving Suggestions for Beef Stew

What to pair with beef stew for a complete meal

When it comes to complementing your delicious beef stew recipe with carrots and potatoes, think about creating a cozy, well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions:

Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of sourdough or rustic whole grain bread is perfect for soaking up that hearty broth.
Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stew.
Rice or Quinoa: These grains make an excellent base, allowing you to enjoy every last bit of the savory stew.
Casserole: For a heartier option, serve with a baked potato casserole or macaroni and cheese.

Experiment with these pairings to elevate your beef stew experience! For more ideas, check out Cooking Light for side dish inspirations.

Time Breakdown for Beef Stew Recipe

Preparation time

Getting started with this hearty beef stew recipe with carrots and potatoes takes about 30 minutes. This includes chopping your veggies and prepping that mouthwatering beef.

Cooking time

You'll want to set aside 3 hours and 30 minutes for cooking. This includes the time spent in the oven, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Total time

In total, you're looking at about 4 hours from start to finish. Trust me, the wait is worth it! If you’re curious about the magic that happens during these hours, check out this insightful article on slow cooking.

Nutritional Facts for Beef Stew Recipe

When you whip up this beef stew recipe with carrots and potatoes, you'll enjoy a nutritious meal that satisfies. Here’s a breakdown of the essential nutritional facts per serving:

Calories: 539 kcal
Protein: 54 g
Sodium: 1189 mg

This hearty stew packs a punch, providing a great source of protein while being rich in flavors. For more tips on meal planning and nutritional insights, check out resources like the USDA Food Composition Database or Nutrition.gov. Eating well can be both comforting and delicious!

FAQs about Beef Stew Recipe with Carrots and Potatoes

Can I use different cuts of beef?

Absolutely! While this beef stew recipe with carrots and potatoes calls for beef chuck, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, which also work well. Just remember to choose cuts with a good amount of marbling for tender results.

What's the best way to store leftovers?

To keep your delicious beef stew fresh, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you're ready to enjoy it again!

How can I make this stew more nutritious?

Looking to amp up the nutrition? Consider adding leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last 15 minutes of cooking. You could also toss in some peas or mushrooms for extra flavor and health benefits. Adding more vegetables not only enhances the stew's taste but also boosts its nutritional profile.

For more tips on nutritious cooking, check out The Nutrition Source for great ideas.

Conclusion on Beef Stew Recipe

In summary, this beef stew recipe with carrots & potatoes is a timeless dish that offers comfort and versatility. It's easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Serve it as a cozy weeknight dinner or make it ahead for busy days. Enjoy the warmth and flavors!