Best Beef Stew
Ingredients:
2 medium garlic cloves, minced or pressed through a garlic press (about 2 teaspoons)
4 anchovy fillets, finely minced (about 2 teaspoons)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 ½ pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 cup frozen peas
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, anchovy fillets, and tomato paste. Set aside.
2. Season and Flour the Beef:
In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes with the flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss the beef until it’s evenly coated.
3. Sear the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add half of the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and repeat with the remaining cubes, adding more oil if needed.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the remaining oil and sauté the onions until they are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, anchovy, and tomato paste mixture, cooking for another 2 minutes.
5. Deglaze the Pot:
Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it, loosening any browned bits. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Simmer the Stew:
Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, bay leaf, thyme, paprika, carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir well to combine.
7. Cook:
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
8. Add Peas:
About 15 minutes before the stew is done, stir in the frozen peas. Continue to cook until the peas are heated through.
9. Season to Taste:
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
10. Serve:
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice.
This hearty beef stew is ri
ch in flavor, with tender beef and a medley of vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.
