Mamaw's 5 Hour Beef Stew
A heartwarming beef stew brimming with tender beef, savory vegetables, and aromatic spices, perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast Tender and flavorful, the star of the dish.
- 4 medium carrots, sliced Adding sweetness and a pop of color.
- 3 medium potatoes, diced Hearty and filling, the comfort staple.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped Provides a fresh crunch and aroma.
- 1 large onion, diced For that foundational savory depth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic goodness that enriches the stew.
- 4 cups beef broth The base of our rich, flavorful stew.
- 1 cup red wine Optional for depth, can be substituted with more beef broth.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste A boost of richness and complexity.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds umami and balance.
- Salt and pepper To taste, the essential seasonings.
- Fresh herbs (like thyme and bay leaves) Lend a fragrant touch to the stew.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned—about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the beef and set aside. In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Deglaze the pot with red wine (if using), scraping up the tasty browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the beef back into the pot along with the broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and the fresh herbs. Bring to a gentle boil.
Cooking
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 5 hours.
- After cooking, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, removing the bay leaves.
- Serve hot with fresh bread or over fluffy rice.
Notes
For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian alternative, swap out the beef for chicken thighs or a mix of your favorite vegetables. To thicken the stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it in the last hour of cooking.