Classic Beef Stew

This classic beef stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. The combination of tender stewing beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavours from red wine and herbs creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. As it simmers, the aromas fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Serve it with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal that will leave you feeling cosy and content.

Ingredients

• 400 g stewing beef
• 2 tbsp plain flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 piece onion
• 2 clove garlic
• 2 piece carrots
• 2 piece celery
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 150 ml red wine
• 500 ml beef stock
• 2 leaf bay leaves
• 1 sprig thyme
• 2 piece potatoes
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 100 g frozen peas

Method

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the stewing beef with salt and black pepper, then coat it in plain flour.

2. 2

   Add the beef to the pot and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

3. 3

   In the same pot, add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté until softened.

4. 4

   Stir in the tomato purée and cook for another minute before adding the red wine. Bring to a simmer and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.

5. 5

   Return the beef to the pot along with beef stock, bay leaves, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover.

6. 6

   Simmer for 1.5 hours or until the beef is tender, stirring occasionally.

7. 7

   Meanwhile, peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Add them to the stew for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

8. 8

   In the final 5 minutes, stir in the frozen peas. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Tips & Variations

• 💡For extra depth of flavour, let the stew sit for a few hours or overnight before reheating and serving.
• 💡Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or mushrooms for variation.
• 💡Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• 💡If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a little cornflour with water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.

FAQs