Herbed Beef Stew

This Herbed Beef Stew is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth infused with fresh herbs, this stew is both flavorful and satisfying. The herbs not only add a fragrant aroma but also elevate the overall taste, making it a dish that’s sure to warm your soul. Whether you’re looking to feed a family or meal-prep for the week, this stew is an excellent choice that gets better as the flavors meld over time.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Deglaze the Pot: If using red wine, pour it into the pot and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Simmer the Stew: Return the beef to the pot, then add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir to combine.
5. Cook the Stew: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your comforting Herbed Beef Stew with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes!