Beef and Onion Stew
Category: Soups and Stews
Serving Size: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Medium
This hearty Beef and Onion Stew is the epitome of comfort food—simple, flavorful, and satisfying. With tender chunks of lean beef, aromatic shallots, and the richness of garlic, this stew is bound to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this stew comes together with minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. Let’s walk through the ingredients and directions to prepare this easy, yet delicious dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lean beef (cubed) | 2 pounds | Cut into 1-inch cubes |
| Shallots | 3 pounds | Peeled and halved or quartered |
| Garlic cloves | 5 cloves | Peeled, whole |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | |
| Bay leaves | 3 leaves | |
| Olive oil | 1 cup | For cooking |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Adds brightness to the dish |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | To taste |
Directions
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Prepare the Pot: Take a large stew pot and place it over medium heat. This will allow your ingredients to cook evenly and provide a great base for the stew.
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Heat the Oil: Add the olive oil to the pot and let it heat up until shimmering. This will ensure that the beef gets a nice sear when added.
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Brown the Beef: Add the cubed beef to the pot, ensuring that each piece gets a good brown color on all sides. Browning the meat will deepen the flavor of the stew.
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Add the Aromatics: Once the beef is browned, add the shallots, garlic cloves, tomato paste, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients and allow the shallots and garlic to soften slightly.
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Cover with Water: Add enough water to cover the beef and aromatics. This will form the base of your stew’s broth.
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Bring to a Boil: Bring the entire mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to begin cooking.
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Simmer to Tenderness: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot. Allow the stew to simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender and fully cooked.
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Serve Hot: Once your stew is cooked to perfection, serve it hot, and enjoy the savory, comforting flavors!
Allergen Information
This Beef and Onion Stew recipe contains olive oil and may not be suitable for those with specific allergies to olive oil or garlic. Be sure to check the ingredient labels, especially if using pre-packaged items. The recipe is free of dairy, nuts, and gluten, making it a safe option for many individuals with dietary restrictions.
Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes
- Nut-Free: Yes
- Paleo-Friendly: Yes
- Low-Carb: Yes (with only 0.9g of carbohydrates per serving)
- Whole30 Approved: Yes (as long as you ensure no added sugars in tomato paste)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 136 kcal |
| Fat | 3.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.9 g |
| Protein | 24.0 g |
Helpful Tips and Advice:
- For Tender Beef: Make sure to let the stew simmer slowly and for a sufficient amount of time. This slow cooking process allows the beef to become tender and absorb all the flavors.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or seasonings, such as thyme or rosemary, to customize the flavor profile of the stew.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also pair this stew with mashed potatoes for a hearty comfort food dinner.
Conclusion
This Beef and Onion Stew is a classic dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving something comforting and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow simmer, you’ll have a rich, flavorful stew that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a small family dinner or a gathering of friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes with every spoonful!
