introduction
This Simple Beef Stew is warm and plain. It uses slow heat to make the meat soft. The stew fills the home with a nice smell. Try a small, trustable recipe like this one to learn slow cooking. See a similar classic beef stew if you want another view.
why make this recipe
Make this stew for cold days or for a calm night. The stew feeds many with little work. You can set the Crockpot and do other things. If you like dumplings with stew, check a simple idea at beef stew with dumplings.
how to make Simple Beef Stew
This stew cooks in a slow pot. The meat and veg cook long and taste deep. You add broth and a little spice. Leave the pot on low for many hours. For a slow cook guide, you can read a similar slow cooker beef stew post.
Ingredients :
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In your Crockpot, combine beef, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
- In a separate bowl, mix together beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables in the Crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your hearty beef stew!
how to serve Simple Beef Stew
Serve the stew hot in deep bowls. Add bread or a small salad on the side. You can also serve it over noodles or rice. For a creamy mix with pasta, see this creamy beef and shells idea.
how to store Simple Beef Stew
Let the stew cool to room heat. Put it in clean, air‑tight boxes. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot on low heat until hot.
tips to make Simple Beef Stew
- Brown the beef first if you can. It adds good taste.
- Cut veg in the same size so they cook even.
- Taste near the end and add more salt if you need.
- Use a low heat for the best soft meat.
- For a richer stew, stir in a little butter at the end.
You can also try a pasta twist like parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta for a change.
variation (if any)
- Add mushrooms for a deep, earthy taste.
- Use red wine in the broth for a strong flavor.
- Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweet note.
- Add peas in the last 20 minutes for a fresh green bite.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes. Use a cut for slow cook, like chuck or brisket. They get soft with long heat.
Q: Do I need to brown the beef first?
A: No. You do not need to. Browning adds more taste but the stew will still be good.
Q: Can I make this on the stove?
A: Yes. Put all in a big pot. Simmer low for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is soft.
Q: How can I thicken the stew?
A: Mix 1 tablespoon corn starch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Stir it in near the end and cook 10 more minutes.
Q: Is this safe to freeze?
A: Yes. Cool then freeze in good boxes. Thaw in the fridge before warm up.
Conclusion
For a fuller guide and more tips on a rich, home-style beef stew, see this Beef Stew Recipe (Homemade & Flavorful).
Print
Simple Beef Stew
- Total Time: 495 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A warm and hearty beef stew that cooks slowly to tenderize the meat and enhance the flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In your Crockpot, combine beef, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
- In a separate bowl, mix together beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables in the Crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your hearty beef stew!
Notes
Brown the beef first for added flavor. Cut vegetables evenly for even cooking. Adjust seasoning as needed and consider adding butter at the end for richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
