Healthy & Filling Beef Stew
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Ingredients:
- 1½ lbs lean beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup water (optional, for desired consistency)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups diced carrots (about 3 large carrots)
- 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1½ cups diced celery (about 3 stalks)
- 1½ cups diced parsnips (optional)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Sauté the onions for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Build the Base:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth and water (if using).
- Add Herbs and Simmer:
- Add thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½ hours.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add carrots, potatoes, celery, and parsnips. Simmer for 20–30 minutes until tender.
- Add green beans in the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with whole-grain bread or enjoy on its own.