Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Italy with our Tuscan Beef Stew with Polenta! This rustic dish combines tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection in a rich, savory broth, paired with creamy polenta that soaks up all the deliciousness. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a culinary journey to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany. Are you ready to discover the secrets to creating a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds? Read on for the full recipe and tips to make your stew truly unforgettable!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Polenta for serving
Instructions
- Pat the beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This helps develop a better sear and flavor.
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and working in batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides until they develop a deep golden-brown crust. Remove browned meat and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and the onions are translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and fresh rosemary. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook slowly for 2-
- 5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is extremely tender and can be easily pulled apart with a fork.
- About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the polenta according to package instructions, ensuring a creamy and smooth consistency.
- Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken.
- Serve the rich, hearty beef stew over creamy polenta, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Sear the Meat Well: For maximum flavor, ensure you pat the beef dry and season it before searing. A good sear locks in juices and enhances the stew's depth.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A Dutch oven or heavy pot distributes heat evenly, preventing hot spots and ensuring that your stew cooks uniformly.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Slow cooking is key! Allow the stew to simmer gently for at least 2 hours for the beef to become incredibly tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust Seasoning at the End: Taste your stew before serving and adjust the seasoning. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the dish significantly.
- Perfect Polenta: Stir the polenta continuously while cooking to avoid lumps and achieve a creamy texture. Add a bit of butter or cheese for extra richness!
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up the hearty stew.
- Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Consider making it a day in advance and reheat before serving for a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 233kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 18g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 48mg
