How to Prepare Beef Stew with Potatoes
Beef stew with potatoes is a classic dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender beef and creamy potatoes in a hearty, comforting stew. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a warm meal on a chilly day, this recipe will guide you through the steps to prepare a delicious beef stew with potatoes. Let’s dive into the details and get started!
Ingredients
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 2 cups of water
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup of frozen peas (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) and position a rack in the middle.
2. Season the beef: In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Coat the beef: Add the seasoned beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
5. Make the roux: Pour the flour into the pot and stir constantly for about 2 minutes, creating a roux. This will help thicken the stew.
6. Add the beef and broth: Return the beef to the pot, along with the beef broth, water, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir well to combine.
7. Simmer the stew: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender.
8. Add the potatoes: After the stew has simmered for 1 hour, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir well, then continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
9. Final touches: If you’re using frozen peas, add them to the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve: Once the stew is ready, serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Enjoy your homemade beef stew with potatoes!
Conclusion
Preparing beef stew with potatoes is a rewarding experience that yields a satisfying and comforting meal. With this recipe, you can easily create a delicious stew that will impress family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a warm, hearty beef stew with potatoes today!
