How long can beef stew be stored in the refrigerator?

Beef stew can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when kept in an airtight container. To maintain its quality and prevent spoilage, make sure the stew is cooled to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat the stew thoroughly to at least 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Can you freeze beef stew and how should it be reheated?

Yes, beef stew freezes well. Divide it into portion-sized airtight containers or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave. Avoid boiling to maintain the stew’s texture and flavor.

What are the best vegetables to add to beef stew?

Classic vegetables for beef stew include carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery. You can also add parsnips, turnips, or peas for extra flavor and texture. Adding root vegetables helps create a hearty meal, while peas and green beans added near the end of cooking keep their color and bite.

How do I thicken beef stew without making it too heavy?

To thicken beef stew naturally, simmer it uncovered for the last 20 to 30 minutes to reduce liquid. You can also mix 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it slowly into the stew until it thickens. Avoid adding too much thickener at once to prevent clumping.

What side dishes pair well with beef stew for a balanced meal?

Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the flavorful broth. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli provide a fresh contrast and balance the richness of the stew, making for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Beef Stew Recipe With Tender Meat And Rich Flavor

Name: Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 pounds stewing beef, trimmed and cubed; – 3 tablespoons flour; – ½ teaspoon garlic powder; – ½ teaspoon salt; – ½ teaspoon black pepper; – 3 tablespoons olive oil, more as needed; – 1 onion, chopped; – 6 cups beef broth; – ½ cup red wine (optional); – 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed; – 4 carrots, cut into 1 inch pieces; – 4 ribs celery, cut into 1 inch pieces; – 3 tablespoons tomato paste; – 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 sprig fresh; – 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or as needed); – 2 tablespoons water (or as needed); – ¾ cup peas

Description

🥩 This beef stew recipe offers tender meat and a rich, hearty flavor perfect for warming meals.
🍲 Enjoy a comforting dish loaded with vegetables and a thick, savory broth that’s great for any occasion.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds stewing beef, trimmed and cubed

– 3 tablespoons flour

– ½ teaspoon garlic powder

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– 3 tablespoons olive oil, more as needed

– 1 onion, chopped

– 6 cups beef broth

– ½ cup red wine (optional)

– 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed

– 4 carrots, cut into 1 inch pieces

– 4 ribs celery, cut into 1 inch pieces

– 3 tablespoons tomato paste

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 sprig fresh

– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or as needed)

– 2 tablespoons water (or as needed)

– ¾ cup peas

Instructions

1-Getting started with beef stew: begins with preparing your ingredients, which sets the stage for a smooth cooking process. First, cut the beef into chunks, slice the carrots, chop the celery and onions, and measure out the herbs and spices. This step helps everything come together easily, so you can focus on the fun of cooking.

2-Next: brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes until it’s seared on all sides, building that deep flavor you love. If you’re watching fat intake, try using a light oil spray instead. Then, remove the beef and sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in the same pot for around 5 minutes to let them soften and soak up those tasty bits left behind.

3-Add the garlic and tomato paste next: cooking for another 2 minutes to bring out their aroma. Now, return the beef to the pot along with the beef broth, herbs, and seasonings, then bring it to a boil before lowering the heat to simmer. Cover and let it cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef turns tender if you’re using a vegan substitute like seitan, shorten the time to about 45 minutes.

4-Finally: adjust the seasoning, remove any bay leaves if used, and stir in fresh touches like parsley before serving. For added inspiration, check out this creamy beef pasta recipe on our site for more ways to enjoy beef dishes. Remember, the key is patience, as the flavors deepen over time for a truly comforting meal.

Notes

🔥 Sear beef before adding broth to enhance caramelization and deepen flavor.
🌿 Add peas toward the end of cooking to maintain their texture and color.
🥕 Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like parsnips or turnips for variety.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Stew, Main Dish
Method: Searing, Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1.5 cups)
Calories: 444 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 383 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 80 mg

Keywords: beef stew,tender beef stew,rich beef stew,hearty stew