Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and comforting beef stew that combines tender beef, baby potatoes, and carrots for a satisfying meal.
This Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots is a classic comfort dish that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew is packed with flavors that develop beautifully during the slow cooking process.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender beef that melts in your mouth
- Hearty vegetables add nutrition and flavor
- Perfect for meal prep or cozy family dinners
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly or you're seeking a meal that warms the soul, this beef stew with baby potatoes and carrots is your go-to recipe. The combination of tender beef and hearty vegetables creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Every spoonful is a delightful experience, making it ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
One of the best aspects of this beef stew is how it brings the family together. As it simmers on the stove, the rich aroma fills your home, inviting everyone to the table. It's the type of meal that encourages conversation and laughter, creating memories over a delicious dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Stew
To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth beef texture, it's crucial to sear the meat properly before simmering. This step locks in the juices and enhances the flavor. Make sure your pot is hot enough so the beef browns instead of steams. A good sear creates a beautiful crust that adds depth to the stew's overall taste.
Don’t rush the simmering process! Allowing the stew to simmer gently for 1.5 hours helps the flavors meld beautifully. If time allows, consider letting it cook longer on a low heat. This not only tenderizes the beef further but also allows the vegetables to absorb all the savory notes of the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Beef stew is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Pair it with crusty bread for a rustic feel, allowing you to soak up every drop of the rich sauce. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist that complements the stew's robust flavors.
For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing your beef stew with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of thyme before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's aroma, making it even more inviting. Whether it's a family meal or a dinner party, your guests will be impressed!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Gather all ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.
Instructions
Sear the Beef
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Combine Ingredients
Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, baby potatoes, and carrots. Bring to a boil.
Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld.
Serve
Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty beef stew!
This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage and Reheating
This beef stew is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making the leftovers taste even better. For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal whenever you need one.
When it comes time to reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the stew, as it can thicken when stored.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste. Add in other vegetables like peas or green beans for added color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices such as bay leaves or paprika to create your own unique flavor profile.
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the broth before simmering. The wine will enhance the stew’s depth and add a sophisticated touch. Just be sure to let the alcohol cook off during the simmering process for the best results.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the stew?
Yes, it freezes well. Just let it cool completely before freezing.
→ What can I serve with this stew?
Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots
A hearty and comforting beef stew that combines tender beef, baby potatoes, and carrots for a satisfying meal.
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pot, add onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, baby potatoes, and carrots. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld.
Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty beef stew!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g