Cozy Classic Beef Stew

 

Beef stew is a comforting classic, perfect for chilly days. Here's a cozy recipe for classic beef stew:

Ingredients:

- 1.5 lbs (680g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced

- 3 celery stalks, sliced

- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced

- 4 cups beef broth

- 1 cup red wine (optional)

- 2 bay leaves

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, season the beef stew meat with salt, pepper, and flour, tossing to coat evenly.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine.

5. Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.

6. Stir in the bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

7. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas (if using) and stir until heated through.

8. Remove the bay leaves and discard. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed.

9. Serve the beef stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

This cozy classic beef stew is sure to warm you up on a cold day. Enjoy!