Beef stew with vegetables is a hearty dish made with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions simmered in a warm, flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly days and family dinners.
I like to make this in a big pot and then relax while it cooks slow. It makes the house smell good and the beef so soft you don’t need a knife!
If you want to save time, use pre-cut vegetables or frozen beef chunks. Just be sure to taste and add a little salt before serving. Easy and tasty!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef chuck roast: This cut is tender and perfect for slow cooking. I suggest cutting it into chunks for easier eating. If you prefer a leaner option, try sirloin, but it may be less tender and need careful cooking.
Carrots: They add sweetness and a bit of texture. I like to chop them into thick slices so they hold up well. Parsnips or sweet potatoes make a nice substitute for a different flavor twist.
Potatoes: Use hearty potatoes like red or Yukon Gold for thick, filling bites. If you’re out, turn to turnips or parboiled sweet potatoes; just keep in mind they may cook faster.
Onions and garlic: These build the base flavor. For a quick version, use onion powder or garlic powder, but fresh adds a richer taste.
Beef broth: This creates the stew’s rich sauce. You can swap with vegetable broth or even water with bouillon for less sodium.
How do I brown the beef without drying it out?
1. Pat beef chunks dry with paper towels; moisture prevents good browning.
2. Heat a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until hot.
3. Add a small amount of oil and let it shimmer, but not smoke.
4. Place beef pieces in the pan without overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
5. Let beef sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes before turning to develop a brown crust.
How to Make Beef Stew with Vegetables?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Proteins
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into chunks
Vegetables
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Liquids & Spices
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
15 minutes prep + 2 hours cook + 0 minutes rest = 2 hours 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the ingredients
Cut the beef into chunks. Chop the vegetables and mince the garlic. Gather all ingredients before cooking.
2. Brown the beef
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium-high. Add beef chunks and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cook the vegetables
Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
4. Add liquids and spices
Stir in garlic, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in beef broth. Bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the stew
Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and flavors meld.
6. Serve the stew
Check seasoning. Serve hot with bread or rice. Enjoy your hearty beef stew with vegetables.
