This beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender, flavorful chunks of beef and rich seasoning. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it up for a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The key to its deliciousness lies in the slow simmering, allowing all the ingredients to meld together perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for coating the beef)
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt (to boost the flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the meat)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (for that perfect hint of spice)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef: Start by coating the beef chunks with the all-purpose flour. The flour helps thicken the stew later and gives the meat a golden crust when seared. Sprinkle the seasoning salt and black pepper over the flour-coated meat, ensuring every piece is well-seasoned.
2. Brown the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, which locks in the juices and adds depth of flavor. Remove each batch and set aside.
3. Build the Stew: After browning the beef, you can begin adding additional ingredients like vegetables (carrots, potatoes, onions) and broth or water to form the stew base. Stir to mix everything well, then return the browned beef to the pot.
4. Simmer Low and Slow: Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 2-3 hours. The slow cooking allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the flavors intensify, creating a rich and hearty stew.
5. Serve: Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve your beef stew with warm crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.
Pro Tip:
For even more flavor, consider adding garlic, bay leaves, thyme, or a splash of red wine to your stew. These extras will take your dish to the next level.
Enjoy the Best Ever Beef Stew—it’s the perfect dish for any occasion, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!