How to cook beef stew meat on stove? - Chef's Resource (2024)

When it comes to comfort food, beef stew is hard to beat. The rich and savory flavors, tender meat, and hearty vegetables make it the perfect dish for chilly nights or a satisfying meal any time of the year. While some may opt for cooking their beef stew in a slow cooker or instant pot, cooking it on the stove is a fantastic way to infuse the flavors and ensure a delicious outcome. In this article, we will guide you on how to cook beef stew meat on the stove and share some tips and tricks for the best results.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cubed
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 1 cup of red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. **Season the beef:** Start by seasoning the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.

2. **Heat the oil:** In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

3. **Brown the beef:** Carefully add the seasoned beef to the pot and brown it on all sides. This step helps develop a rich caramelized flavor in the stew. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.

4. **Sauté the onions and garlic:** Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot, and cook until they become soft and translucent. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

5. **Add the vegetables:** Toss in the sliced carrots, celery, and cubed potatoes. These vegetables not only add flavor but also enhance the texture of the stew.

6. **Return the beef to the pot:** Place the browned beef back into the pot with the vegetables.

7. **Add the liquid ingredients:** Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. The liquid adds moisture and depth of flavor to the stew.

8. **Flavor the stew:** Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and additional salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients provide a well-rounded flavor profile to the stew.

9. **Simmer and cook:** Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the stew to simmer for around 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

10. **Adjust the seasoning:** Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.

11. **Serve and enjoy:** Once the beef is tender and the flavors have developed, your beef stew is ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy it with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What cut of beef is best for stew meat?

The best cuts for beef stew meat are chuck, round, or brisket.

2. Can I use frozen beef stew meat?

It is best to thaw the beef stew meat before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout the stew.

3. What vegetables can I use in beef stew?

Aside from carrots, celery, and potatoes, you can add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms to your beef stew.

4. How long does it take for beef stew meat to become tender?

Cooking beef stew on the stovetop usually takes around 2-3 hours for the meat to become tender.

5. Can I use white wine instead of red wine?

Yes, you can substitute white wine for red wine if you prefer a lighter flavor.

6. Can I make beef stew ahead of time?

Beef stew actually tastes better when made ahead of time as it allows the flavors to develop. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

7. Can I freeze beef stew?

Yes, beef stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

8. Can I use beef broth instead of beef stew meat?

Yes, you can use beef broth to make a vegetable-based stew. Just omit the beef and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

9. Can I thicken the stew?

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering stew until it reaches your desired consistency.

10. Can I use a different cooking vessel?

While a Dutch oven or stockpot is recommended, you can also use a sturdy saucepan or deep skillet to cook beef stew on the stove.

11. Can I add herbs to the stew?

Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves can enhance the flavor of your beef stew.

12. Can I adjust the recipe to make a smaller or larger batch?

Yes, you can easily adjust the recipe to make a smaller or larger batch of beef stew by scaling the ingredients accordingly. Just ensure you have a pot large enough to accommodate the ingredients.