Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew for Cozy Nights

Warm up your evenings with a savory Beef and Vegetable Stew packed with rich flavors and wholesome, natural ingredients for cozy nights. This hearty dish brings together tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs in a slow-simmered broth that comforts and satisfies. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or gathering with friends and family, this stew promises depth of flavor and nourishing goodness with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a bowl: A rich combination of slow-cooked beef and colorful vegetables offers a warm, satisfying meal perfect for cooler evenings.
• Wholesome and nourishing: Packed with natural ingredients, it delivers a balanced plate of protein, vitamins, and minerals without any fuss.
• Easy to customize: Flexible ingredient options let you personalize the stew based on what you love or have on hand.
• One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup and simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of any skill level.
• Lasting leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, providing easy, ready-to-eat meals for busy schedules.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Beef and Vegetable Stew lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role whether bringing depth to the broth, texture to every bite, or a pop of color that brightens the dish.

• Beef chuck: Provides tender, flavorful meat perfect for slow cooking.
• Carrots: Add natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
• Celery stalks: Bring fresh, crisp notes and balance the richness.
• Potatoes: Give heartiness and soak up all the lovely broth flavors.
• Onions: Offer depth and a savory base for the stew.
• Garlic cloves: Impart fragrant warmth and enhance every ingredient.
• Tomato paste (natural): Creates a rich, slightly tangy undertone that complements the beef.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami layers without overpowering.
• Beef broth (natural): Essential for a robust and savory base liquid.
• Bay leaves: Infuse gentle herbal aroma during cooking.
• Thyme (fresh or dried): Brings a subtle earthiness that elevates the stew.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a bright acidity to balance rich flavors.
• Natural gelling agent: Helps achieve the perfect stew consistency by thickening the broth naturally.
• Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance all the ingredients beautifully.

Variations for Beef and Vegetable Stew

Feel free to play around and tailor this Beef and Vegetable Stew recipe to fit your pantry, dietary preferences, or flavor profile. Swapping ingredients or adjusting seasonings can make every batch uniquely yours while keeping the comforting essence intact.

• Swap root vegetables: Use sweet potatoes or parsnips instead of regular potatoes for a different texture and sweetness.
• Add leafy greens: Toss in kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle in smoked paprika or chili flakes if you enjoy a gentle kick.
• Make it stew stewier: Include pearl onions or mushrooms to introduce new tastes and textures.
• Use grape juice: Substitute apple cider vinegar with grape juice for a touch of natural sweetness.

How to Make Beef and Vegetable Stew

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by chopping beef chuck into bite-sized pieces and dicing all your vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Mince garlic and prepare your herbs so they are ready to add when needed.

Step 2: Brown the beef

Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, then add the beef chunks. Sear until all sides develop a rich brown crust. This step locks in flavor and creates a delicious base for the stew.

Step 3: Sauté the aromatic vegetables

Remove beef temporarily and add onions, garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant, stirring regularly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Build the stew base

Return the beef to the pot. Stir in tomato paste (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Pour in the beef broth (natural), add bay leaves and thyme, and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Simmer until tender

Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tenderness you love. Add peeled and diced potatoes halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Thicken and season

Sprinkle the natural gelling agent gradually into the stew, stirring until the broth thickens to your desired consistency. Add apple cider vinegar for brightness, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Final touches

Remove bay leaves and any herb stems. Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve the stew steaming hot, ready to bring comfort to your table.

Pro Tips for Making Beef and Vegetable Stew

• Brown the beef well: Taking time to get a deep, rich sear adds layers of flavor you can taste in every bite.
• Don’t rush the simmer: Slow cooking tenderizes the meat and blends ingredients beautifully patience pays off.
• Layer flavors: Add herbs and seasoning at different cooking stages to build complexity.
• Test your thickener: Add natural gelling agent slowly to get perfect stew consistency without clumps.
• Rest the stew: Letting it sit for 10-15 minutes off heat helps flavors marry even more amazing.

How to Serve Beef and Vegetable Stew

Garnishes

Brighten your bowl with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of microgreens for a fresh bite that complements the richness of the stew.

Side Dishes

Pair your stew with crusty whole-grain bread or a soft plant-based cheese (plant-based) garlic toast to soak up every bit of the delicious broth.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stew inside hollowed-out rustic bread bowls or over a bed of creamy mashed cauliflower for a unique twist that adds extra texture and flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your Beef and Vegetable Stew to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy later without losing its flavor.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully; separate portions into freezer-safe containers to enjoy a comforting meal anytime you need with minimal effort.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to refresh the stew’s rich texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for the stew?

Yes, cuts like brisket or round work well too, but they may need longer cooking time to become tender.

How can I make the stew thicker without flour?

Using the natural gelling agent included in the recipe will naturally thicken the stew without altering its taste.

Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Definitely. Vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn can be added near the end of cooking for extra color and taste.

What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?

Grape juice works well as a natural alternative to add subtle acidity and balance to the stew’s flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Vegetable Stew is a shining star for anyone craving a warm, flavorful, and nourishing meal on any cozy night. Its simplicity and adaptability mean you can make it your own while enjoying the loving combination of tender meat and vibrant vegetables in every spoonful. Give it a try and discover your new favorite comfort food that brings both joy and satisfaction to your table.

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