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Introduction
Old fashioned beef stew recipe is a classic comfort food that has been loved by families for many generations. This recipe is all about slow cooking tender pieces of beef with fresh vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth. The beef becomes soft and juicy as it cooks slowly, and the vegetables soak up all the delicious flavors. The result is a thick and hearty stew that feels warm and satisfying in every bite. It is simple home cooking at its best. You do not need fancy ingredients or special tools to make it. Just simple food, slow cooking, and patience create something truly special.
People love this old fashioned beef stew recipe because it reminds them of home and family meals. The smell of stew cooking on the stove fills the kitchen with warmth and comfort. It is one of those meals that brings everyone to the table. The beef is tender, the potatoes are soft, and the carrots add natural sweetness. The rich broth ties everything together into a cozy and filling dish. It is loved by both children and adults because it is simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Many people say it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to blend.
This recipe is perfect for cold weather, rainy days, or whenever you want something comforting and filling. It is great for family dinners, weekend meals, or even meal preparation for the week. Because it is rich in protein and vegetables, it can help keep you full for a long time. The slow cooking process makes the beef easier to chew and enjoy. If you are feeling tired or stressed, a warm bowl of old fashioned beef stew can feel like a hug in a bowl. It is not just food, it is comfort and tradition served together.
Ingredients You Will Need
Here are the ingredients you need to make this old fashioned beef stew recipe. This serves about 6 people.
Beef chuck 900 grams cut into cubes
All purpose flour 3 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper half teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 large chopped
Garlic 3 cloves minced
Carrots 3 medium sliced
Potatoes 3 medium peeled and cut into chunks
Celery stalks 2 sliced
Beef broth 4 cups
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Bay leaf 1
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon
Water 1 cup if needed
Fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped for garnish
Step by Step Method
Step 1
Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps the meat brown better. Place the beef in a bowl. Add flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so all pieces are lightly coated.
Step 2
Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef in small batches. Do not overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
Step 3
In the same pot, add chopped onion. Cook for about 3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute while stirring.
Step 4
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. This adds depth of flavor to the stew.
Step 5
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together.
Step 6
Add carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Stir gently to combine.
Step 7
Bring the stew to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer slowly for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 8
Check the beef after 90 minutes. It should be tender and easy to cut with a spoon. If it is not tender yet, continue cooking for another 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 9
If the stew is too thick, add a little water. If it is too thin, let it cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes to thicken.
Step 10
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.
Serve hot with bread or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Is Special
This old fashioned beef stew recipe is special because it uses simple ingredients to create deep and rich flavor. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become very tender. The vegetables absorb the broth and become soft and tasty.
It is also a balanced meal. Beef provides protein and iron, which are important for energy and muscle health. Carrots and potatoes provide vitamins and fiber. Celery adds freshness and texture. When enjoyed in moderate portions, this stew can be part of a healthy diet.
Another reason this recipe stands out is its tradition. Many families pass down their beef stew recipe from one generation to another. It is a dish that connects people to memories and family gatherings.
Extra Tips for Better Taste
Choose beef chuck because it becomes tender when cooked slowly.
Brown the beef well before simmering. This step adds extra flavor to the stew.
Add a splash of red wine before adding broth for deeper flavor if desired.
Let the stew rest for 15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle.
Make it a day ahead. Beef stew often tastes better the next day.
Add peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra color and sweetness.
Serve with warm bread to soak up the rich broth.
Final Thoughts
Old fashioned beef stew recipe is a timeless meal that never goes out of style. It is simple, hearty, and full of rich flavor. This recipe is perfect for beginners because the steps are easy to follow. With patience and slow cooking, you can create a dish that tastes like it took hours of skill.
Cooking this stew fills your home with comforting smells and brings people together around the table. It is more than just a meal. It is warmth, tradition, and love in a bowl. Once you try it, it may become a favorite in your home too.
Nutrition Details
Below is an approximate nutrition breakdown for the full recipe and per serving based on six servings.
Whole Recipe Nutrition
Calories about 3000
Protein about 210 grams
Carbohydrates about 180 grams
Fat about 180 grams
Fiber about 25 grams
Iron high amount from beef
Per Serving Nutrition
Calories about 500
Protein about 35 grams
Carbohydrates about 30 grams
Fat about 30 grams
Fiber about 4 grams
Values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.