Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Imagine a chilly evening, the kind where the wind whistles softly and the leaves dance in the air. On such nights, there’s nothing quite as heartwarming as a bowl of Old Fashioned Beef Stew. This recipe is a timeless classic, steeped in tradition and brimming with flavors that speak of home, hearth, and hearty comfort.

As you prepare to embark on this culinary journey, envision tender chunks of beef, slowly simmered to perfection, melding their rich flavors with the earthy goodness of potatoes, carrots, and a medley of vegetables. Each ingredient in this stew plays its part in creating a symphony of tastes and textures, from the robust beef to the fresh crunch of green beans.

This stew isn’t just a meal; it’s a story in a pot, a tale of simple ingredients coming together to create something magical. It’s a recipe passed down through generations, each adding their own touch, their own little secret to make it even more special.

So, tie your apron, warm up your pot, and get ready to stir some love into this Old Fashioned Beef Stew. Whether it’s a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or a quiet night in, this dish promises to wrap you in warmth and leave you feeling contented and full. Let’s start cooking!

Ingredients:

1. 2 tablespoons olive oil
2. 2 pounds cubed beef stew meat
3. 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4. 4 cups water
5. 2 cups beef broth
6. 1/2 teaspoon salt
7. 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
8. 4 cups cubed potatoes
9. 2 cups chopped carrots (or turnips, if you’re feeling adventurous)
10. 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
11. 1 cup fresh corn kernels
12. 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1 inch pieces
13. 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (optional, but highly recommended for a fresh twist)

Instructions:

1. Start the Stew: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef: Toss the beef stew meat with the all-purpose flour, ensuring each piece is well coated. Add the beef to the pot and stir to coat with oil. Let the beef brown lightly, which adds a depth of flavor.
3. Simmer with Flair: Pour in the water and beef broth. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer gently for about 1 hour. This slow simmer is where the magic happens, turning tough beef into tender bites.
4. Vegetable Medley: Stir in the cubed potatoes, chopped carrots (or turnips), and sprinkle in the dried rosemary. Continue to simmer for another 1-2 hours. This is when the potatoes and carrots soak up all the wonderful flavors.
5. Final Flourish: Add the fresh corn kernels and green beans. If you’re using tomatoes, now’s the time to add them as well. Let everything simmer together for an additional 30 minutes. This last step ensures the vegetables are cooked just right – tender but not mushy.