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A bowl of savory beef stew with tender beef and fresh vegetables

Savory Beef Stew

A heartwarming beef stew packed with tender meat and colorful vegetables, perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly nights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes Look for fresh, high-quality meat.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin for the best flavor.
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 3 stalks celery, sliced
  • 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups beef broth Low-sodium recommended.
  • 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme Or 2 tablespoons fresh thyme for a vibrant flavor.
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the beef cubes, sprinkling with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Remove the beef and set it aside.
  4. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
  5. Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes; cook for another 5 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Return the beef to the pot and pour in beef broth to cover the ingredients.
  2. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
  4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the green beans to the pot and cook until tender.
  6. Taste for seasoning; adjust with more salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Notes

For added thickness, whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch into cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 20 minutes of cooking. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and can be made ahead for improved flavor.