Slow-cooked beef stew with carrots and potatoes🥔
📝 Ingredients:
For the stew:
800g beef (steer, chuck), cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
3 carrots, chopped
3 potatoes, cubed
2 tbsp tomato paste
500ml beef broth
250ml red wine (optional)
1 tbsp flour
1 tbsp dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme
Salt and freshly ground pepper
For the mash:
800g potatoes
50g butter
100ml hot milk
Salt to taste
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the stew:
In a casserole dish, heat the olive oil.
Add the beef and brown well on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the onion in the same casserole dish until translucent.
Add the garlic, tomato paste, and flour. Stir for 1 minute.
Deglaze with the red wine (or a little stock if not used).
Return the meat, add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, salt, pepper, and the remaining stock.
Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer over low heat for 2 hours, until the meat is tender.
2. Prepare the mash:
Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks.
Cook them in salted water for about 20 minutes.
Drain, then mash with the butter and hot milk until smooth.
Slow-cooked beef stew is a comforting dish cherished around the world, perfect for colder days. This recipe aims to highlight how various ingredients come together to create rich flavors and textures. Carrots and potatoes not only add nutrition but also enhance the stew’s robustness. The beef, traditionally chosen for its ideal fat content, ensures a tender melt-in-the-mouth experience after hours of cooking. Sealing in the meat's juices by browning it enhances the flavor profile dramatically. For added depth, consider incorporating herbs like rosemary or bay leaves, which can complement the thyme beautifully. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also lend a savory note that deepens the overall taste. Achieving the right seasoning balance with salt and freshly cracked pepper is crucial; adjust them before serving for optimal taste. Additionally, serving the stew with mashed potatoes creates a classic combination. Ensure the potatoes used for mashing are starchy, like russets, for a fluffy texture. Combining warm milk and butter in the mash adds a rich creaminess that pairs perfectly with the stew. This beef stew recipe not only satisfies hunger but also brings comfort and warmth, making it a classic family favorite. Perfect for meal prep, leftovers can be repurposed in various dishes, including casseroles or soups. For a delightful twist, serve the stew over a bed of fresh greens or alongside crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth.
