Best Ever Beef Stew

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When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something warm and comforting, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of beef stew. This Best Ever Beef Stew recipe combines tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, making it the perfect meal for a cozy night in. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress. Let’s dive in and discover why this dish might just become your next go-to comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef stew is a treasure for several reasons. First, the meat becomes incredibly tender after slow-cooking, practically melting in your mouth. The combination of vegetables adds a delicious depth of flavor, while the addition of red wine and Worcestershire sauce enhances the richness of the broth. It’s a versatile dish that can be served over egg noodles or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal that warms you from the inside out.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Resealable plastic bag
• Large skillet
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Slow cooker
• Whisk

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 bay leaves
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups water
• 2 heaping teaspoons beef demi-glace (or beef Swanson Flavor Boost)
• 4 medium to large red-skinned potatoes, washed & diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled & sliced
• 1 stalk celery, diced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the beef stew meat in a resealable plastic bag with the flour and seasoning salt. Shake until the meat is evenly coated.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the floured stew meat and brown on all sides. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the meat to the bottom of a slow cooker. Season with black pepper.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion for about 2 minutes. Transfer the onions to the slow cooker.
4. Pour Worcestershire sauce, water, and beef demi-glace into the skillet. Whisk to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Turn off the heat and set aside.
5. Add diced potatoes, carrots, celery, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Pour the broth mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the beef is browned on all sides for maximum flavor.
• Don’t rush the process; slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning to taste just before serving.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can add a cup of red wine to the broth for a deeper flavor. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This hearty stew is a great source of protein and provides a variety of nutrients from the vegetables. It’s filling yet balanced, making it a wholesome meal choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this stew in advance? Yes, beef stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.
• What can I use instead of beef demi-glace? Beef bouillon or stock cubes can be a suitable substitute.

In conclusion, this Best Ever Beef Stew is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that warms the soul. We hope you enjoy making and eating this stew as much as we do! Feel free to share your experiences and any personal tweaks you might have added in the comments below. Bon appétit!

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