Are you craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen? Look no further than this mouthwatering Stove Top Beef Stew! Imagine tender beef chunks, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that will have your family begging for seconds. This classic American comfort dish is not just a meal – it's a culinary experience that promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the beef chuck into 1-inch cubes, slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, and chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves and set everything aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed beef chuck. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste, and brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, return the browned beef to the pot. Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the mixture. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to ensure that all ingredients are submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the stew to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. Allow the stew to cook for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- After the cooking time is complete, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can remove the lid and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Once the stew has reached your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the beef stew hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade stove top beef stew!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Use beef chuck for maximum tenderness and flavor. The marbling in this cut ensures your stew will be incredibly rich and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Brown Your Meat Properly: Take time to brown the beef cubes thoroughly. This crucial step develops deep, complex flavors that will elevate your entire stew.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Patience is key! Simmer the stew on low heat to allow the meat to become incredibly tender and let the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Don't Rush the Cooking Process: The
- 5-hour cooking time is essential for developing rich, deep flavors. Resist the temptation to speed things up.
- Consider Thickening Options: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry or let it reduce uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme just before serving can brighten the entire dish and add a fresh, aromatic touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
