This hearty beef stew is perfect for warming up on a chilly day, packed with tender meat and rich flavors. It’s a simple, comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Prep Time30 min
Cook Time2 hr 10 min
Total Time2 hr 40 min
Difficulty
Hard
Helpful Chef Tips
Brown the beef well to build deep flavor before adding liquids.
Use fresh herbs for a brighter taste, adding them towards the end of cooking.
Let the stew simmer gently to keep the meat tender and allow flavors to meld.
Ingredients
0/16
What Makes This Recipe Special
This stew is rich and comforting, perfect for chilly days. The tender beef and hearty vegetables create a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Its deep flavors develop slowly, making every bite delicious and memorable.
Step 1
In a bowl, combine the flour, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Heat some canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss the beef pieces in the seasoned flour, making sure they’re well coated, then brown them on all sides in the hot oil until they have a nice crust.
Step 2
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, mix together the water, vegetable broth, beef broth, Cabernet wine, thyme, bay leaves, chopped onion, and garlic. Add the browned beef to the pot, bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently. Cook it until the beef is really tender and the liquid has thickened a bit, about an hour and a half.
Step 3
Stir in the carrots and potatoes. Bring the stew back to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer again until the veggies are soft, which should take around 30 minutes.
Step 4
In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with a little water until it’s smooth, then stir this mixture into the stew. Keep it simmering and stir constantly until it thickens up nicely. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Combinations
Serve the stew with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes. A simple green salad on the side adds freshness and balances the richness. For a cozy meal, pair it with a glass of red wine.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve after sitting overnight. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of wine instead of Cabernet Sauvignon?
Yes, you can substitute with another dry red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir.
How do I know when the beef is tender enough?
The beef should be easy to pierce with a fork and feel soft after simmering for about 1.5 hours.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken the stew?
You can use flour or arrowroot powder as alternative thickeners.
Is it necessary to brown the beef before simmering?
Browning adds flavor and texture, but you can skip it if short on time.
Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely, vegetables like celery, peas, or green beans work well added with the carrots and potatoes.
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