Perfect Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 2 cups frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed beef and brown on all sides. Remove beef from pot and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a small amount of beef broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Return browned beef to the pot. Add remaining beef broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Add Vegetables: Add sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Add Peas: About 5 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas. Cook until heated through.
- Serve: Remove bay leaves and discard. Taste stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
