Hearty Stewed Steak

Hearty Stewed Steak: A Comforting Classic

1. Introduction

Stewed steak is a classic comfort food that warms both the heart and the soul. This dish features tender chunks of beef simmered in a flavorful gravy until it’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread, stewed steak is a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.

2. Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds (680g) stewing beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

3. Directions

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bite-sized pieces of stewing beef to the pot and brown them on all sides. This helps to seal in the flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
4. Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any accumulated juices.
6. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice) into the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The beef should become tender and the flavors meld together.

4. How to Prepare

8. In a small bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with a bit of water to create a smooth paste (this is called a slurry). Gradually stir the slurry into the stew to thicken the gravy. Allow the stew to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
10. Serve the stewed steak hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a slice of crusty bread.

5. Preparation Time

The total preparation time for stewed steak can take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including cooking time. It’s a dish that benefits from slow cooking to develop its rich flavors.

6. Servings

This recipe serves about 4 people, making it an ideal family meal. You can easily adjust the quantities to accommodate a larger or smaller group.

7. Tips

• For an even richer flavor, you can brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as peas or potatoes, to the stew for extra variety.

8. Conclusion

Stewed steak is a comforting and hearty meal that brings warmth to any table. Its tender beef and savory gravy make it a timeless favorite, perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings with loved ones. Enjoy the satisfying taste of this classic dish!