Stove Top Beef Stew

Tender, juicy Stove Top Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and fills your stomach. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this hearty dish combines succulent beef with flavorful vegetables. The best part? It’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying, making it a staple in any kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation – With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of herbs and spices infuses the beef with a delicious taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish – Serve it over rice, with mashed potatoes, or alongside crunchy toast for a complete meal.
• Slow-Cooked Goodness – Cooking on the stove top allows the beef to become tender and absorb all the wonderful flavors.
• Feeding a Crowd – This recipe serves six, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking your Stove Top Beef Stew, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – This heavy pot distributes heat evenly, ensuring your stew cooks thoroughly while retaining moisture.
• Chef’s knife – A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, helping you prepare ingredients efficiently.
• Measuring spoons – Accurate measurements of spices and sauces are crucial for achieving the best flavor in your stew.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Stove Top Beef Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 pounds chuck beef (cut into 1 inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon browning sauce (optional, for color)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 stalks celery (chopped)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons roast beef base paste (like Better than Bouillon)
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2/3 cup red cooking apple vinegar (merlot or any dark red apple vinegar)
• bunch of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, bay leaf about 2 sprigs each)
• 4 large carrots (roughly chopped)
• 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes (cut into cubes)

How to Make Stove Top Beef Stew

Step 1: Season the Beef

Begin by seasoning the beef cubes. In a large bowl, combine:
1. Add flour, Worcestershire sauce, browning sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to coat the meat evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a large dutch oven set over medium-high heat:
1. Add vegetable oil and let it heat until shimmering.
2. Sear the seasoned beef on all sides for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same dutch oven:
1. Add chopped celery, onions, and minced garlic.
2. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato paste and roast beef base; simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to build flavor:
1. Pour in beef stock and red cooking apple vinegar.
2. Add fresh herbs—rosemary, thyme, bay leaf—and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and cook for about two hours.

Step 5: Add Carrots and Potatoes

After two hours:
1. Add roughly chopped carrots and cubed Yukon gold potatoes to the pot.
2. Continue cooking on medium-low heat for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Final Step: Serve Your Stew

Once cooked:
1. Ensure the beef is tender before serving.
2. Garnish as desired and enjoy with rice, mashed potatoes or crunchy toast!

How to Serve Stove Top Beef Stew

Serving Stove Top Beef Stew is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy the rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

With Rice

• Serve the beef stew over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful broth, making each bite satisfying.

With Mashed Potatoes

• A classic pairing, creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth texture that complements the chunky beef and vegetables.

On Crunchy Toast

• Ladle the stew onto thick slices of toasted bread for a rustic approach. The toast adds a nice crunch that contrasts well with the tender stew.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your stew with freshly chopped parsley or thyme to enhance its flavor and add a pop of color.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This enhances the meal and provides an excellent way to enjoy the savory broth.

How to Perfect Stove Top Beef Stew

To achieve the best results with your Stove Top Beef Stew, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Beef: Select chuck beef for its marbling and flavor. It becomes tender during slow cooking.
• Sear Properly: Ensure your beef is well-seared before simmering. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Don’t Rush Cooking: Let the stew simmer low and slow for optimal tenderness. Patience is key for perfect results.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasonings towards the end of cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the taste significantly compared to dried or preserved ones.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a bit after cooking can improve flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Stove Top Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Stove Top Beef Stew can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread

2. This buttery, garlic-infused bread is perfect for soaking up broth and adds a deliciously rich flavor.

3. Steamed Broccoli

4. Lightly steamed broccoli provides a fresh contrast in texture and taste, balancing out the richness of the stew.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

6. These crispy sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of beef stew.

7. Cauliflower Mash

8. A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers creaminess without added starches.

9. Garden Salad

10. A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers creates a refreshing contrast to hearty stew.

11. Buttered Corn

12. Sweet buttered corn adds a touch of sweetness and color that complements the savory elements in your stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Stove Top Beef Stew, it’s easy to miss a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Searing the beef adds depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for a rich stew.
• Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too much beef at once, it will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches for the best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland stew. Ensure you evenly coat the beef and taste as you go.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Beef needs time to become tender. Don’t rush the cooking process; patience is key for perfect texture.
• Adding Vegetables Too Early: Adding potatoes and carrots too soon can result in mushy vegetables. Wait until the beef is tender before incorporating them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The stew can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Stove Top Beef Stew

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Stove Top Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Stove Top Beef Stew.

How do I make my Stove Top Beef Stew thicker?

To thicken your stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering stew until thickened.

Can I use different cuts of beef for Stove Top Beef Stew?

Yes! While chuck beef is ideal, you can also use brisket or round cuts if preferred.

What side dishes pair well with Stove Top Beef Stew?

This hearty stew goes great with rice, crusty bread, or mashed potatoes to soak up all the flavorful broth.

How long does it take to cook Stove Top Beef Stew?

The total cooking time is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including simmering time after adding vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Stove Top Beef Stew is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!

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Stove Top Beef Stew

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves six

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Description

Stove Top Beef Stew is the quintessential heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. This robust stew features tender beef, savory vegetables, and a rich broth, making it a perfect choice for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. With easy preparation steps and a delightful blend of flavors, this recipe is designed for cooks of all skill levels. Whether served over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or crunchy toast, each bowl promises warmth and nourishment.

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Ingredients

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• 3 pounds chuck beef (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 stalks celery (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2/3 cup red cooking apple vinegar
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, bay leaf)
• 4 large carrots (roughly chopped)
• 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes (cut into cubes)

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Instructions

1. Season the beef with flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil and sear the beef until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot.
3. Sauté celery, onions, and garlic in the same pot until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste.
4. Pour in beef stock and red cooking apple vinegar along with fresh herbs; bring to a simmer.
5. Add seared beef back into the pot; cover and cook on medium-low heat for about two hours.
6. Add carrots and potatoes; continue to simmer for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until vegetables are tender.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg