in INSTANT POT DINNER RECIPES

Savory Beef Stew

Big Bold Headline: Ultimate Savory Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Nights

There’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting bowl of beef stew to warm you up on a chilly evening. This classic dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients and flavors. In this ultimate savory beef stew recipe, we’ll show you how to create a rich and flavorful stew that will become a staple in your household. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 2 pounds of beef cubes
  • 2 medium onions, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bottle (340 ml) of beer
  • 4 cups of beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Add the Beef Back In: Return the browned beef cubes to the pot.
  5. Add the Broth and Flavorings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, paprika, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
  6. Simmer: Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add the Vegetables: After an hour, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is cooked through.
  8. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or any other seasonings to suit your taste.
  9. Serve: Once the stew is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Slow Cooker Method: You can also make this beef stew in a slow cooker. Simply follow steps 1-5, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the potatoes and carrots during the last hour of cooking.
  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the beef cubes and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, celery, and peas for a hearty vegetarian stew.
  • Spice it Up: Feel free to add some heat to your stew by incorporating a diced jalapeno or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary on hand, they would make excellent additions to this stew.
  • Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can also use other meats like lamb, pork, or even chicken for this stew. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the type of meat you choose.
  2. Can I make this stew ahead of time? Yes, this stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating it. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
  3. What should I serve with beef stew? Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, rice, or even a simple green salad. Choose whatever side dishes you enjoy to make it a complete meal.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! This stew freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

For a keto or low carb version of this stew, you can omit the potatoes and use low carb vegetables like cauliflower or turnips instead. Additionally, you can replace the beer with beef broth or red wine vinegar mixed with water to maintain the flavor without the carbs.

With its rich flavor and hearty ingredients, this savory beef stew is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a cold winter night or hosting a dinner party for friends, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and make it your own. Once you try this delicious stew, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household for years to come.