Hearty Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes

 

Hearty Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes

Hearty Beef Stew with carrots and potatoes is one of the most comforting and traditional meals enjoyed around the world. This dish is well known for its rich, deep flavors and tender, slow-cooked beef that melts in your mouth. It is a perfect example of a warm, home-style meal that brings families together around the table. The combination of juicy beef, soft potatoes, and sweet carrots cooked in a thick, flavorful gravy creates a satisfying and nourishing dish suitable for lunch or dinner.

Beef stew is especially popular during colder seasons because it provides warmth and comfort with every bite. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender while blending beautifully with herbs, spices, and vegetables. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients, making it a balanced and wholesome meal.

Another wonderful thing about this dish is its simplicity. It uses basic ingredients that are easy to find, and although it requires slow cooking, the preparation itself is straightforward. Whether you are cooking for your family, guests, or simply preparing a comforting homemade meal, this beef stew is guaranteed to impress with its rich aroma and incredible taste.

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🥩 Ingredients

For the Beef Stew:

• 700 g (1.5 lbs) beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels.
2. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

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Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and sear them until browned on all sides.
3. Remove the beef and set aside.

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Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavor.

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Step 4: Simmer the Stew

1. Return the beef to the pot.
2. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Add thyme or rosemary.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Cover and let simmer for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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Step 5: Add Vegetables

1. Add carrots and potatoes to the stew.
2. Cover and continue cooking for another 30–40 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the beef is very soft.

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Step 6: Thicken the Stew

1. Mix flour with a small amount of water OR mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
2. Stir it into the stew and cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve the beef stew hot in deep bowls. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for extra flavor and color.

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