Ingredients
For the Stew:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 pounds cubed beef stew meat
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups water
2 cups beef broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 cups cubed potatoes
2 cups chopped carrots
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 cup fresh corn kernels
1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup chopped turnip (optional)
2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Cube the Beef: If your beef stew meat is not pre-cubed, start by cutting it into 1-inch cubes. This size ensures that the meat will cook evenly and become tender during the simmering process.
Prepare the Vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop the vegetables. Cube the potatoes and chop the carrots and turnips into bite-sized pieces. Trim the green beans and cut them into 1-inch lengths. If using fresh tomatoes, chop them into chunks. This preparation helps the vegetables cook evenly and blend well with the meat.
Brown the Beef
Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when the beef is added.
Coat and Brown the Beef: In a bowl, toss the cubed beef with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until evenly coated. Add the beef to the hot oil in the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors and gives the beef a nice crust.
Build the Stew Base
Add Liquids and Seasonings: Once the beef is browned, add 4 cups of water and 2 cups of beef broth to the pot. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Simmer the Beef: Cover the pot and let the beef simmer for about 1 hour. This slow cooking process allows the beef to become tender and infuses the broth with rich flavors.
Add the Vegetables
Incorporate Root Vegetables and Herbs: After the beef has simmered for an hour, add the cubed potatoes, chopped carrots (or turnips), and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Stir well to combine. Simmer the stew for another 1 to 2 hours, covered. This slow cooking ensures that the root vegetables become tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Corn and Green Beans: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add 1 cup of fresh corn kernels and 1 cup of fresh green beans. These vegetables do not take as long to cook and retain their texture and color when added towards the end.
Optional Ingredients
Add Optional Vegetables: If using, add 1 cup of chopped turnip and 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes during the final simmering stage. The turnip adds a slight bitterness that complements the sweetness of the carrots and corn, while the tomatoes add a fresh, acidic note that brightens the overall flavor of the stew.
Final Steps
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Every palate is different, and this step ensures that the stew is seasoned to your liking.
Serve: Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve. This beef stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or homemade biscuits, which are perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Meats: Substitute the beef with lamb or pork for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these meats may require different simmering times.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Spices and Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, bay leaves, or parsley. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can add depth to the flavor.
Wine Addition: Add a cup of red wine along with the broth for a richer, more complex flavor.
Thickening the Stew: For a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned beef stew is a timeless recipe that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. The tender chunks of beef, combined with a medley of fresh vegetables and a savory broth, create a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. This recipe’s flexibility allows you to customize it to your taste, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this beef stew is sure to impress and delight. Enjoy the process of making this classic dish and the joy it brings to your table. Happy cooking!
