Easy Homemade Beef Stew

Easy Homemade Beef Stew

A hearty beef stew is a classic comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and delivers big on flavor. With tender beef chunks, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 4 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Guide:

1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and rosemary and cook for 30 seconds more.
3. Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. If desired, thicken the stew by making a slurry with the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir the slurry into the stew and cook for an additional minute or two, until thickened.
5. Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley (if using).

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will help the meat sear properly and develop deeper flavor.
• You can adjust the thickness of the stew to your preference. If you like a thicker stew, simply mash some of the cooked vegetables with a fork before adding the cornstarch slurry.
• This stew is also delicious served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.