Description
A hearty, nourishing stew that combines tender beef, sweet potatoes, and seasonal vegetables simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for cozy fall dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
Beef and Broth
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 parsnip, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Seasonings and Garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides to develop flavor and seal in juices, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add onion, carrots, celery, and parsnip (if using) to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Aromatics and Tomato Paste: Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing the stew’s depth of flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot along with diced sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and bay leaves. Stir everything well to integrate flavors.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer gently for 1½ to 2 hours or until the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Finish and Season: Remove the bay leaves. Season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a thicker stew, mash a few sweet potato chunks directly into the broth before serving.
- This recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker: cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours for tender beef and rich flavor.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for convenient future meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American