Outrageously Simple Beef Stew
A hearty and flavorful beef stew with rich tomato and wine notes, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for those who enjoy slow-cooked, savory dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a stew pot with a lid, simmer all ingredients except for vegetables for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Add carrots and potatoes, then cook for another 40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in the pot before simmering. You can substitute red wine with beef broth if preferred or use a mix of root vegetables like parsnips for added sweetness. Season generously with salt, pepper, and oregano to enhance the taste. If you want a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it in the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef stew with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A fresh salad or steamed green beans make excellent sides. It pairs beautifully with Spiced Stew for a comforting meal or can be served over mashed potatoes for a filling dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Outrageously Simple Beef Stew contains roughly 1763 calories, with 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 180g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 511mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can absolutely adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply brown the beef and then add all ingredients to the slow cooker, cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What kind of potatoes work best in beef stew?
Waxy potatoes like red or yellow potatoes hold their shape well during cooking, while starchy varieties like Russets can break down and thicken the stew. You can use either, depending on your texture preference.
Is it necessary to use wine in this recipe?
While the wine adds depth of flavor, you can omit it if desired. For a non-alcoholic version, use additional beef broth or water with a splash of vinegar for acidity. The stew will still be delicious and comforting without the wine.
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).