Classic Beef Stew (Printer-Friendly)

Tender beef chunks braised with vegetables, red wine, and herbs for a rich, comforting meal.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Meat

01 - 3 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces

→ Dry Ingredients

02 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
03 - ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
04 - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
05 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

06 - 1 large onion, roughly chopped
07 - 2 stalks celery, cut into 1-inch pieces
08 - 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally into 1-inch pieces
09 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
11 - ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

→ Liquids and Sauces

12 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
13 - 4 cups low sodium beef broth
14 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
15 - 2 cups red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)

→ Herbs

16 - 2 bay leaves
17 - 3 sprigs fresh thyme

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Pat beef cubes dry using paper towels, then evenly toss with flour, salt, and black pepper.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown beef on all sides in batches if needed. Transfer browned beef to a plate.
03 - Add additional olive oil to the pot if necessary. Sauté onion, celery, and carrots until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and sugar; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant and tomato paste darkens.
04 - Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine, stirring to combine. Return beef to the pot along with bay leaves and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes until beef is fork tender.
05 - Stir in the potatoes, cover, and continue cooking for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
06 - Remove bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - For a wine-free variation, substitute red wine with additional beef broth to maintain rich flavor.
02 - Store leftovers in airtight containers refrigerated for 3 to 4 days; allow stew to reach room temperature before storing but do not leave out longer than 2 hours.
03 - This dish freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers or resealable freezer bags.