Beef Stew, perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with tender beef, colorful root vegetables, and a rich, savory broth

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat the oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown each piece on all sides until a deep golden crust forms. Remove the beef and set it aside.

This step builds flavor—don’t rush it.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Base

Add the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the onions. This will help thicken the stew as it cooks.

Step 5: Deglaze and Add Liquid

Slowly pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release all the flavorful browned bits. Add the water if needed, then return the browned beef to the pot.

Step 6: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Stir in the carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaves, thyme, and paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Simmer Slowly

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef should become fork-tender, and the broth will thicken into a rich, savory sauce.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaves. If the stew is too thick, add a little more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Beef stew is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls
• Mashed potatoes or buttered rice
• A simple green salad for balance

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

• Use chuck beef—it’s ideal for slow cooking.
• Low and slow is the key to tender meat.
• Let the stew rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.
• Beef stew tastes even better the next day!

A Bowl of Pure Comfort

This beef stew is everything a cozy meal should be—rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. With tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s the kind of dish that brings comfort to the table and smiles to every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet night in, this classic beef stew is always the right choice. 🍲