What is the best way to brown beef for stew to improve its flavor?

To get the best flavor in beef stew, brown the beef pieces in a hot pan before adding any liquid. This process, called searing, caramelizes the meat's surface, creating deeper, richer flavors. Use a bit of oil and avoid crowding the pan so the beef browns evenly. Sear the pieces in batches if needed, then remove them before adding broth or vegetables. This step locks in savory flavor that makes the stew more delicious.

How can I thicken beef stew without changing its taste?

Beef stew naturally thickens from potato starch and meat dredging, but you can add extra thickness using a cornstarch slurry. Mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then add it gradually to the simmering stew while stirring. Let it boil for 1-2 minutes to remove any starchy taste. Alternatively, lightly mashing some cooked vegetables in the stew can also help thicken it while keeping the natural flavors intact.

Is it safe to freeze beef stew and how should I do it?

Yes, beef stew freezes well and holds its flavor after thawing. Portion the stew into freezer-safe bags or containers and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and freeze. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight or use a microwave on defrost mode with occasional stirring. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture and flavor.

What sides go well with beef stew for a balanced meal?

Beef stew is hearty on its own but pairs well with simple sides like bread, biscuits, or cornbread to soak up the broth. Adding rice or egg noodles under the stew in the bowl adds extra carbs and texture. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the stew.

Can I use leftover vegetables in beef stew and which ones work best?

Leftover vegetables are perfect for beef stew and help reduce waste. Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery hold up well during slow cooking. You can also add peas or green beans at the last few minutes of cooking since they cook quickly. Just chop vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking and add them according to their cooking times to avoid overcooking.

Beef Stew Recipe 5 Tips For 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 rosemary; – 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or as needed); – 2 tablespoons water (or as needed); – ¾ cup peas

Description

🍲 Enjoy a hearty meal with this Beef Stew Recipe featuring tender meat simmered in a rich, flavorful broth.
🥕 Packed with vegetables and savory spices, this stew offers comfort and nourishment in every bite.

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 rosemary

– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or as needed)

– 2 tablespoons water (or as needed)

– ¾ cup peas

Instructions

1-Mix flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then coat the beef cubes.

2-Brown the beef in olive oil over medium-high heat and set aside.

3-Cook the onion until softened.

4-Add beef broth and red wine, scraping the pot bottom.

5-Return beef and add veggies, tomato paste, and rosemary; simmer covered.

6-Thicken with cornstarch slurry and boil briefly.

7-Stir in peas and adjust seasoning.

Notes

🔥 Searing the beef before simmering builds a rich caramelized flavor.
🌱 Add peas in the last 5-10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
🥔 Use leftover vegetables to customize the stew based on availability.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
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, Hearty stew, Comfort food