Hearty Homemade Beef Stew Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Best

Ingredients:

• 3 teaspoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound beef stew meat, visible fat removed
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups homemade beef stock or canned unsalted chicken stock
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 medium red potatoes (about 1 pound), cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 large carrots, sliced 1/4-inch thick (about 2 cups)
• 2 celery stalks, sliced 1/2-inch thick (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 2 1/2 Tablespoons flour
• 1/4 cup stock

Preparation:

This easy beef stew recipe is perfect for cozy nights in. Start by heating 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef stew meat on one side for 5 minutes without turning, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Flip the meat, add 1 teaspoon of oil, and brown for another 2-3 minutes. Ensure not to crowd the pan; brown in batches if needed.

Once all meat is browned, reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking and stirring for 2-3 minutes until the onion is browned. Pour in the beef stock, salt, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Ensure the meat is fully submerged, adding more stock if necessary.

Bring the stew to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 2 hours, checking occasionally. After 2 hours, stir in potatoes, carrots, and celery. Bring to a boil again, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

In a small bowl, combine flour with 1/4 cup stock, whisking until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew and cook for an additional 5 minutes until thickened. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty beef stew as the ultimate comfort food!