Description
This hearty and flavorful beef stew is the perfect one-pot meal for cozy nights. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a dish that feels like home. The best part? It’s so simple to make, yet tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this stew is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck or stew meat, trimmed and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons herbs de Provence or Italian seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large sweet onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 pound fingerling or small red potatoes, unpeeled, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3 cups boiling water
- 3 tablespoons Better Than Bouillon Roast Beef Base
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1–2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, basil, or tarragon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 325°F for a slow and even cook.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
- Trim any excess fat and connective tissue from the beef.
- Toss the beef with flour, herbs, kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Liquid
- Place the onion and carrots around the beef. Add the potatoes on top without stirring.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together boiling water, beef base, and tomato paste. Pour this mixture into the pot.
Step 4: Bring to a Simmer
- Heat the pot on the stovetop over high heat until the mixture simmers.
Step 5: Bake the Stew
- Cover the pot with a lid and bake on the center rack for 2 hours.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional hour to thicken the stew and tenderize the beef.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
-
- Stir in the frozen peas and balsamic vinegar. Replace the lid and let the peas thaw for 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Thicker Stew: Bake uncovered longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as cornstarch.
- Freezer-Friendly: Let the stew cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Herb Substitutions: Use dried thyme or rosemary if you don’t have herbs de Provence or Italian seasoning.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add parsnips, celery, or even mushrooms for additional flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven-Baked, One-Pot
- Cuisine: American