Step 1: Prepare the Meat
- Season and Brown the Beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and sear on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Stew Base
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the stew.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine, if using, and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this adds rich flavor to the stew). Cook for about 2 minutes to let the wine reduce slightly.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, then stir in the tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and Worcestershire sauce. Return the seared beef to the pot, including any juices that accumulated on the plate.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 5: Add Peas and Adjust Seasoning
- Add Frozen Peas: About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They’ll cook quickly and add a pop of color and sweetness to the stew.
- Season to Taste: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a truly comforting meal.
Tips for the Best Beef Stew
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast or brisket works best as these cuts become tender during long, slow cooking.
- Use Fresh Herbs If Possible: Fresh rosemary and thyme add even more flavor, but dried herbs work well too.
- Let It Simmer: The longer the stew simmers, the richer and deeper the flavors become, so don’t rush the process.
Variations
- Add Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms along with the carrots for extra flavor and texture.
- Add a Splash of Balsamic Vinegar: For a slightly tangy twist, add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar near the end of cooking.
Final Thoughts
This savory homemade beef stew is a rich and hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With tender beef, a medley of vegetables, and a robust broth, it’s sure to be a family favorite.