Hearty Beef Stew with Apple Cider: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Hearty Beef Stew
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty beef stew to comfort your soul. This dish is rich in flavor and packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a hint of sweetness from apple cider. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this stew is sure to please everyone at the table.
A Personal Story Behind My Hearty Beef Stew Journey
Growing up, my grandmother always made her famous beef stew during the colder months. The aroma would fill the house, inviting everyone to gather around the table. After many years of perfecting her recipe, I’ve added a special twist with apple cider, which gives the stew a unique depth of flavor that everyone loves. Every time I make this stew, I’m reminded of those family moments, and I hope to create new memories with my loved ones.
What Makes This Hearty Beef Stew Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because of the addition of apple cider, which enhances the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables. The balance of savory and slightly sweet creates a comforting and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s easy to make! With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. It’s a comforting classic that warms both the heart and the stomach.
The Full Hearty Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 3 cups apple cider or juice
- 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) reduced-sodium beef broth
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 medium carrots, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
- 3 celery ribs, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
- 2 medium onions, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water
- Fresh thyme sprigs, optional
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, then drain any excess oil. This step is crucial as it builds flavor.
- Add apple cider, beef broth, cider vinegar, salt, dried thyme, and pepper to the Dutch oven. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1-1/4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After 1-1/4 hours, add potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions to the pot. Bring back to a boil, then cover and simmer for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the beef and vegetables are tender. Ensure to check the vegetables for doneness.
- In a small bowl, mix the flour and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes, or until the stew thickens. For a thicker stew, feel free to adjust the flour and water mixture to your preference.
- Optionally, serve the stew with fresh thyme sprigs to add a touch of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hearty Beef Stew
This hearty beef stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or fluffy biscuits, perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices. You can also serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a filling meal. Consider adding other vegetables like parsnips or peas for variety. For a unique twist, try swapping out some of the beef for a different protein or experimenting with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Beef Stew
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I freeze leftover beef stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of apple cider?
If you prefer, you can use apple juice or even chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 6
Hearty Beef Stew with Apple Cider
Equipment
- Dutch oven Ideal for simmering the stew.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 3 cups apple cider or juice
- 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) reduced-sodium beef broth
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme adjust to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 medium carrots, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
- 3 ribs celery, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
- 2 medium onions, cut into wedges
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup water
- 1 bunch Fresh thyme sprigs, optional
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, then drain any excess oil.
- Add apple cider, beef broth, cider vinegar, salt, dried thyme, and pepper to the Dutch oven. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1-1/4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After 1-1/4 hours, add potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions to the pot. Bring back to a boil, then cover and simmer for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the beef and vegetables are tender. Ensure to check the vegetables for doneness.
- In a small bowl, mix the flour and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes, or until the stew thickens. For a thicker stew, feel free to adjust the flour and water mixture to your preference.
- Optionally, serve the stew with fresh thyme sprigs to add a touch of freshness and color.