Old Fashioned Beef Stew

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a delightful dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. With tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of herbs and spices, this stew is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in. Its rich flavors and comforting aroma make it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef, vegetables, and spices creates a hearty taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this delicious stew.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your stew by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew stores well, making it an excellent option for leftovers or meal planning.
• Feeding a Crowd: With 8 servings, it’s great for large families or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Old Fashioned Beef Stew, having the right tools is key to success. Below are the essential items you’ll need to create this comforting dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for browning the beef and simmering the stew evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without damaging the pot’s surface while scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom.

Ingredients

This Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and all the right herbs and spices.

For the Beef Stew

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 10 ounces pearl onions
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 cup cold water

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Dust 2 pounds of beef stew meat with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear for about 5 minutes until all sides are browned, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Vegetables

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add diced potatoes, pearl onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, along with dried basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and ground allspice. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 90 to 120 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until dissolved. Slowly pour this mixture into the stew while stirring constantly. Cook on low heat for a few more minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your stew and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot for a warm comforting meal!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Serving Old Fashioned Beef Stew is all about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting texture. Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the savory broth, making each bite even more satisfying.

Serve with a Fresh Salad

• A light, crunchy salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the stew’s richness and adds freshness to the meal.

Add a Dollop of Sour Cream

• Topping your stew with a dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast and enhances the flavors with a bit of tang.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley or thyme sprinkled on top not only beautifies the dish but also adds an aromatic touch and extra flavor.

Enjoy with Rice or Quinoa

• Serving the stew over fluffy rice or nutty quinoa adds another layer of texture and allows you to enjoy every last drop of the broth.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Perfecting Old Fashioned Beef Stew takes attention to detail and a few key tips. Here are some to consider for an even better stew.

• Choose Quality Meat: Using high-quality beef chuck roast ensures tender meat that breaks down beautifully during cooking.
• Sear the Meat Well: Browning the beef creates depth in flavor by developing rich caramelized bits that enhance the overall taste.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Allowing the stew to simmer slowly helps develop flavors and tenderizes the meat, so patience pays off.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking; this ensures a well-balanced flavor profile that suits your palate perfectly.
• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, using homemade beef broth enhances the flavor significantly compared to store-bought options.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Beef Stew can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a rich accompaniment, perfect for mopping up gravy.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and sweetness, balancing out the savory notes of the stew.
3. Buttered Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful crunch and complements the heartiness of beef stew well.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Soft, cheesy polenta serves as a delicious base for beef stew, adding creaminess and flavor.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds a fresh, earthy element that pairs nicely with hearty meals like stew.
6. Simple Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds add texture and elegance to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid while preparing this comforting dish.

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Selecting a tough cut like chuck roast is essential. Better cuts can end up dry instead of tender.
• Skipping the browning step: Searing the beef adds flavor through caramelization. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for a rich taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Cooking too much meat at once can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Not simmering long enough: For truly tender beef, allow sufficient simmering time. Rushing this process can lead to tough meat.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! You might need extra salt or spices toward the end for perfect flavor.
• Cutting vegetables too small: If veggies are cut too small, they may become mushy. Aim for bite-sized pieces for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stew to cool before refrigerating to maintain quality.

Freezing Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Old Fashioned Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the stew in an oven-safe dish, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Old Fashioned Beef Stew that might help you along the way.

How do I make Old Fashioned Beef Stew thicker?

To thicken your stew, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew while cooking on low heat.

Can I use different vegetables in my Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stew with seasonal vegetables like peas or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.

What is the best way to reheat Old Fashioned Beef Stew?

The stovetop method works best as it warms evenly without overcooking. Be sure to stir occasionally!

How long does Old Fashioned Beef Stew last in the fridge?

The stew lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make Old Fashioned Beef Stew ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it often tastes better after sitting overnight as flavors meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized based on your preferences. Give it a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Old Fashioned Beef Stew

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Experience the warmth and comfort of a classic Old Fashioned Beef Stew, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This hearty dish features tender beef simmered to perfection with vibrant vegetables and a medley of aromatic herbs and spices. The rich flavors meld beautifully over time, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up every delicious drop. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at stew for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 10 ounces pearl onions
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 cup cold water

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Dust beef with cornstarch and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat; sear beef until browned on all sides.
3. Add minced garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant.
4. Deglaze pan with beef broth; add vegetables and spices.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 90–120 minutes until beef is tender.
6. Thicken stew with cornstarch mixed in water; stir until combined.
7. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 60mg