Hearty Veggie and Beef Stew Recipe with Essential Ingredients

When the temperature drops, nothing feels better than a warm bowl of stew. A hearty veggie and beef stew not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body. This dish combines tender beef with a variety of colorful vegetables, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

In this post, we’ll look at the key ingredients needed for this delicious stew and provide a detailed recipe to help you cook it perfectly.

Essential Ingredients

To create a hearty veggie and beef stew, gather the following ingredients:

• Beef Chuck: 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes. This cut is perfect for stews because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.

• Vegetables: Use a mix of your favorites. Common choices include:

- 3 medium carrots, sliced (providing about 30 calories and 2 grams of fiber each)

- 3 medium potatoes, diced (offering around 110 calories and 2 grams of fiber each)

- 2 stalks of celery, chopped (only 10 calories per stalk)

- 1 large onion, diced (approximately 45 calories)

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (adding about 9 calories)

• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons for a rich depth of flavor.

  
  

• Beef Broth: 4 cups, serving as a base that contributes to the stew's savory taste.

  
  

• Herbs and Spices:

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

- Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, used for browning the beef.

  
  

• Optional Add-ins: Consider adding peas, green beans, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. For example, adding one cup of peas provides about 67 calories and boosts the protein content.

  
  

With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a stew that warms you from the inside out.

A delicious bowl of hearty veggie and beef stew

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

To start, chop all your vegetables, dice the beef, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready in advance makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pot to allow proper browning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. This step is essential for enhancing the stew's flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Remove the browned beef and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it coats the meat and vegetables evenly. Pour in the beef broth, followed by the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

After boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together nicely. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

A pot of simmering beef stew on the stove

Step 6: Add Remaining Vegetables

About 30 minutes before the stew is done, add the diced potatoes and any optional vegetables you choose. This timing ensures they cook through without losing their texture.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Before serving, taste the stew to check the seasoning. Adjust if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once ready, ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.

Serves 6

Tips for the Perfect Stew

1. Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality beef and fresh vegetables yield the most flavor.

2. Consider Slow Cooking: For added convenience, you can use a slow cooker. Just follow the same steps and cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender beef and rich flavors.

3. Make it Ahead of Time: This stew tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

4. Freezing Options: You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

   
   

Warm Up with Comfort Food

A hearty veggie and beef stew is classic comfort food that brings warmth and happiness to any meal. With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks alike.

Whether you're aiming to feed a crowd or enjoy a cozy night in, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and savor a delicious bowl of homemade stew that nourishes both body and soul. Happy cooking!