Step 4: Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. This caramelizes it slightly and intensifies the stew’s flavor.
Return the browned beef (and any juices) to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well to combine.
Step 5: Add Seasonings and Simmer
Add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and simmer for about 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. During this time, the beef will slowly become tender and the broth will turn rich and flavorful.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
Once the beef is tender, stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery.
Cover again and cook for another 30–40 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the stew has thickened naturally. If it becomes too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
For a classic finishing touch, stir in the frozen peas and let them warm through for 5 minutes. This adds a lovely pop of color and sweetness.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve your old-fashioned beef stew hot, sprinkled with a little chopped parsley for color.
It pairs beautifully with:
- Warm crusty bread or buttermilk biscuits
- A simple green salad
- A side of buttered noodles or rice
💡 Tips for the Perfect Old-Fashioned Stew
- Choose the right cut: Beef chuck or brisket works best—they become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Low and slow is key: Don’t rush the simmering time; this is where all the magic happens.
- Make it ahead: Beef stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together overnight.
- Freeze leftovers: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months for a ready-to-go comfort meal.
❤️ Conclusion
The old-fashioned beef stew is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of tradition, patience, and love in a pot. With its melt-in-your-mouth beef, hearty vegetables, and savory broth, it’s a dish that brings warmth to every table. Perfect for a Sunday dinner or a cozy weeknight treat, this stew is a timeless reminder that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.
Would you like me to include a slow cooker version or an instant pot adaptation of this recipe too?
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