Comforting Ground Beef Stew

Comforting Ground Beef Stew

As the cooler months unfurl their chilly embrace, there’s nothing more inviting than a pot of stew simmering on the stove. Comforting Ground Beef Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings warmth to your table and smiles to the faces of those gathered around it. This classic recipe transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of savory goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Cooking Method

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

4. 

   Add Vegetables and Tomato Paste: Stir in the carrots and potatoes, followed by the tomato paste. Mix well to coat the vegetables.

5. Simmer Stew: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Add Peas: Remove the bay leaf and stir in the frozen peas. Let the stew cook for another 5 minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

Ground Beef Stew is not only a feast for the senses; it’s also packed with nutrition. It is an excellent source of protein from beef and vitamins from the array of vegetables. It provides essential nutrients like iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C, contributing to a balanced diet.

For a complete meal, pair this stew with crusty bread or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the savory broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stew. For drinks, consider a robust red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a hot herbal tea to complement the meal's comforting warmth.