Hearty Beef Stew for Busy Nights

Hearty Beef Stew for Busy Nights

After a long, hectic day, nothing beats coming home to a pot of hearty beef stew. This comforting dish warms you from the inside out and is packed with flavors that satisfy both the soul and the stomach. Easy to prepare and perfect for making in advance, this beef stew will quickly become your go-to recipe for those busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and black pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, browning each side thoroughly. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. Build the Base: Stir in the tomato paste, cooking until it darkens slightly, then add the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme. Mix well.

4. 

   Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the meat is submerged. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Add Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue simmering the stew, covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

6. Final Touch: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy!

Nutritious Value and Pairings

This beef stew is rich in protein and provides a healthy dose of essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber from the vegetables. It makes for a balanced meal on its own, thanks to the combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates.

Best Side Dishes or Salads:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich and savory broth.
• Caesar Salad: The crispiness and tanginess of a Caesar salad complement the stew beautifully.
• Mashed Potatoes: Add extra creaminess and are great for those who love potatoes.

Drinks to Pair:

• Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, enhances the flavors of the beef stew.
• Dark Beer: A stout or porter offers a rich, malty counterbalance to the hearty stew.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing glass of iced tea serves as a light and cool contrast to the warm stew.

This hearty beef stew is the ideal remedy to a busy weeknight, offering both simplicity in preparation and immense satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy the richness, warmth, and home-cooked love with each spoonful!