French Country Beef Stew
A hearty French-inspired beef stew featuring tender meat, stewed tomatoes, carrots, and potatoes, flavored with thyme and served with crusty bread for comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine meat and flour in a plastic bag; toss to coat evenly.
- In a 6-quart pot, brown the coated meat in oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Add stewed tomatoes, beef broth, carrots, potatoes, and thyme.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
- Stir in mustard.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with warm crusty French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of fresh herbs in addition to thyme, such as rosemary or bay leaves. If you prefer a thicker stew, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. You can substitute the beef with chicken for a lighter version or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Pair with warm, crusty French bread for a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with warm crusty French bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For an added touch, consider serving it alongside a simple green vegetable or a classic side like mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simmer gently on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Country Beef Stew contains roughly 887 calories, with 16g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (156% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (144% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 25g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Brown the meat first, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
What type of beef is best for stew?
Chuck roast is the ideal cut for stew, as it becomes tender and flavorful after long cooking. Avoid lean cuts, as they can become tough. Look for well-marbled meat for the best results.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of cooking times; add quicker-cooking vegetables later in the process to prevent them from becoming mushy.
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).