Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-6 minutes. This step adds rich flavor to the stew. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add garlic and tomato paste: Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the tomato paste, stirring to coat the vegetables. This step helps build the stew's base flavor.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in the beef broth and water, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits left from browning the beef.
- Simmer the stew: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well, cover, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Add potatoes: After about 1 ½ hours, add the diced potatoes. Continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and tender.
- Thicken the stew (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until it thickens to your liking.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the beef is tender and the stew has thickened, remove the bay leaf and serve hot. Pair it with crusty bread for a comforting meal!
Notes
I cooked this stove top beef stew to provide you with a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks or anyone craving a warm, hearty dish on a chilly day. It's easy to prepare and packed with flavor that gets better as it simmers. Just follow the simple steps, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.