Brown Beef Stew
A hearty, comforting beef stew featuring tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and peas simmered in a savory broth. This classic dish offers rich flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes.
- Sprinkle the beef with salt and pepper. Roll in flour.
- Brown the beef in drippings or fat.
- Add water, cover, and simmer until the beef is almost tender, about 2 to 3 hours.
- Add diced potatoes, sliced onions, and diced carrots.
- Season with salt and pepper and continue to simmer until vegetables are done, stirring occasionally.
- Add raw peas towards the end of cooking and cook until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during the simmering process. If you don’t have drippings, olive oil or butter works well. You can also substitute with sweet potatoes for a different twist. To thicken the stew, mix additional flour with cold water and stir it in towards the end of cooking. This recipe is a comforting take on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or even a side of Ro-Tel Rice for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brown Beef Stew contains roughly 1097 calories, with 18g protein, 165g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (210% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), and potassium (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2376mg per serving (103% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute stewing beef with chuck roast or even lamb for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar-sized cubes for even cooking. Adjust cooking times accordingly if using a leaner meat.
How do I know when the beef is tender enough?
The beef should easily break apart with a fork when it's done. If it's still tough after simmering for 2 to 3 hours, continue cooking, checking every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired tenderness.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like green beans, peas, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of cooking times; add quicker-cooking vegetables towards the end of the simmering process to retain their texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).