Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, diced
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced beef stew meat and brown on all sides. This may need to be done in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
3. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
4. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pot. Add water, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder (or minced garlic), salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
7. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot. Cover and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
8. If using frozen peas, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
9. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
10. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.