Save A hearty, robust stew featuring tender beef simmered with smoked paprika, garlic, and vegetables perfect for comforting meals on a budget.
This comforting beef stew is a family favorite that fills the house with wonderful aromas and warms everyone on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- Beef chuck: 800 g (1.75 lb) cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes
- Onions: 2 medium finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced
- Carrots: 2 large peeled and sliced
- Celery: 2 stalks sliced
- Potatoes: 3 medium peeled and cut into chunks
- Red bell pepper: 1 chopped
- Canned diced tomatoes: 400 g (14 oz)
- Smoked paprika: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Bay leaf: 1
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Beef broth: 750 ml (3 cups)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2:
- Lower heat to medium. Add onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Step 4:
- Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell pepper. Mix well.
- Step 5:
- Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Step 6:
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 7:
- Cover and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is very tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- Step 8:
- Discard bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Save This stew always brings us together around the table sharing stories and laughter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 450 calories, 18 g total fat, 34 g carbohydrates, 38 g protein.
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. Check store-bought broth and tomato products for hidden allergens or gluten.
Save This stew is best enjoyed fresh but tastes great as leftovers too.
Recipe Questions
- → What cut of beef is best for this stew?
Beef chuck is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked, but brisket or stewing beef can also work well.
- → Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, root vegetables like parsnips or turnips complement the existing mix and absorb the smoky flavors nicely.
- → How does smoked paprika affect the flavor?
It adds a rich, smoky depth that enhances the beef's natural savory taste without overwhelming the dish.
- → Is it possible to prepare this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely. Flavors deepen when rested overnight, making it ideal for preparing a day early and reheating gently.
- → What are good serving suggestions with this dish?
Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice to soak up the flavorful juices for a complete meal.