Hearty Slow-Simmered Savory Beef Stew Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that warms you from the inside out, nothing beats this Hearty Slow-Simmered Savory Beef Stew Recipe. It’s packed with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that’s been lovingly slow-cooked to perfection. Every spoonful offers a harmony of deep, savory notes balanced by the freshness of herbs and just the right touch of sweetness from the carrots and peas. This stew is pure coziness in a bowl, perfect for gathering around the table on chilly days or anytime you want a meal dripping with homemade goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is essential, contributing layers of flavor, heartiness, and color. From the succulent beef chuck to the medley of fresh vegetables, every component plays a crucial role in making this dish as comforting as it is delicious.

• Beef chuck (2 pounds): A perfect cut for slow cooking; it becomes meltingly tender and rich in flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season and enhance the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables.
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Used to lightly coat the beef for a beautiful browning and to thicken the stew.
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For searing the beef to lock in flavor and develop that irresistible crust.
• Onion (1, chopped): Builds a savory base and adds subtle sweetness when sautéed.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses a warm, aromatic depth throughout the stew.
• Beef broth (2 cups): Provides the essential liquid and meaty foundation for the stew’s broth.
• Red wine (1 cup, optional): Adds complexity and richness—highly recommended if you want to elevate the flavor.
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Brings acidity and body that balance the stew’s richness beautifully.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy, umami boost for depth of flavor.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): An earthy herb that complements the beef wonderfully.
• Bay leaf (1): Imparts a subtle aromatic undertone during the simmering process.
• Carrots (4, peeled and sliced): Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the stew.
• Potatoes (4 medium, peeled and chunked): Provide comforting heartiness and soak up the rich broth.
• Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Adds a mild crunch and fresh vegetal notes.
• Frozen peas (1 cup): Stirred in last for a burst of color and a touch of sweetness.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A final touch of brightness and freshness for garnish.

How to Make Hearty Slow-Simmered Savory Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Season and Coat the Beef

Begin by seasoning the beef cubes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Then, toss them lightly with two tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This step is crucial as the flour helps in browning the meat beautifully and later thickens the stew’s luscious broth.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding, and brown the beef cubes on all sides until they develop a deep, golden crust. This browning locks in flavor and creates those flavorful fond bits that intensify the stew’s taste. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Using the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This simple sauté forms the aromatic base of your stew, layering in subtle sweetness and depth.

Step 4: Add Flour and Cook Briefly

Sprinkle in the remaining tablespoon of flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about a minute. This coats the onions and garlic and helps build a velvety texture in the stew’s sauce once the liquids are added.

Step 5: Deglaze with Broth

Pour in the beef broth gradually, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Those bits are flavor gold, so don’t miss this step! The broth is the heart of your stew, turning from simple stock to a rich, soulful base.

Step 6: Incorporate Additional Flavorings

Stir in the red wine if you’re using it, along with the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaf. These ingredients are like the secret agents, infusing the stew with exciting umami notes and balancing acidity.

Step 7: Return Beef to the Pot

Now, add the browned beef back into the pot. Stir everything together to ensure the meat is well coated and nestled into the flavorful liquid.

Step 8: Slow Simmer the Beef

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer slowly for about 1.5 hours. This slow simmering tenderizes the beef until it’s wonderfully soft and infused with all those rich flavors.

Step 9: Add Vegetables

After the beef has had its long, flavorful bath, introduce the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Cover and simmer for another 30 to 40 minutes, or until both the vegetables and beef are fork-tender. This is where the stew transforms into a complete meal, comforting and filling.

Step 10: Stir in Peas and Finish Cooking

Finally, add the frozen peas and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes to warm them through. These bright little bursts of sweetness add a lovely contrast and a splash of color to your stew.

Step 11: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Remove the bay leaf, then give the stew a taste. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preferences. This final tweak ensures every mouthful is perfectly seasoned.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. It adds a fresh, vibrant aroma and a pop of color that makes the dish even more inviting.

How to Serve Hearty Slow-Simmered Savory Beef Stew Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is my go-to, bringing brightness to every bite. You can also experiment with a sprinkle of chopped chives or a few fresh thyme leaves for an extra herbal lift. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil can add a luxurious note if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This stew shines wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or buttery garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious sauce. For extra green goodness, a crisp simple salad or sautéed greens like spinach or kale complements the heartiness and adds balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy, rustic vibe, serve this stew in a hollowed-out baguette bowl or a mini cast iron pot. You can also ladle it over creamy polenta or buttered egg noodles for a fun twist. If you want to impress guests, garnish each serving with a parmesan crisp or toasted pine nuts for a crunchy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Hearty Slow-Simmered Savory Beef Stew Recipe actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have fully melded, so it’s a perfect candidate for leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and tasty.

Freezing

If you want to save it for longer, this stew freezes exceptionally well. Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy days.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly without breaking down the tender beef or vegetables. You can also microwave individual portions, but stovetop reheating preserves the stew’s texture best.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

While beef chuck is ideal for slow simmering due to its marbling and tenderness, you can use brisket or short ribs for a similarly rich result. Just ensure they are cut into cubes and cooked long enough to become tender.

Is it necessary to use red wine?

Red wine adds wonderful depth and complexity, but it’s totally optional. If you prefer to skip alcohol, simply replace it with an equal amount of beef broth. The stew will still be delicious and hearty.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies on the stovetop, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Add the peas during the last 30 minutes to preserve their bright flavor.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to customize with parsnips, turnips, mushrooms, or even green beans. Just keep in mind their cooking times and add accordingly to avoid overcooking.

How thick should the stew be?

The stew should have a rich, slightly thickened broth that coats the back of a spoon. If it’s too runny, you can simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or whisk a little flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water into the stew to thicken it gently.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Slow-Simmered Savory Beef Stew Recipe truly embodies the perfect bowl of comfort—nourishing, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together, filling the kitchen with cozy aromas and the promise of something delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and make it a beloved staple in your home, just like it is in mine.

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