Name: Classic French Beef Stew with Carrots and Bouquet Garni
Prep time: PT-488174H3M24S
Cook time: PT-488174H3M24S
Total time: PT-488174H3M24S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lb beef (rump cap or chuck), cut into large pieces; 2 carrots, peeled and chunked; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup red wine; 2 cups beef stock; 1 bay leaf; 1 sprig thyme; 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening); Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter, for browning

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rustic French-inspired beef stew is comforting, fragrant, and incredibly nourishing. Tender chunks of beef chuck simmer slowly with sweet carrots, onions, and garlic, all infused with the earthy aroma of fresh herbs. The bouquet garni brings a depth of flavor that makes every bite satisfying. Simple ingredients, one pot, and rich flavor—what’s not to love?

Classic French Beef Stew with Carrots and Bouquet Garni

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1.8 pounds (800 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into cubes
2.2 pounds (1 kg) carrots, peeled and sliced into thick rounds
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 yellow onions, chopped
1 bouquet garni (a bundle of rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves, tied with kitchen twine or enclosed in cheesecloth)
100 ml (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon) water
100 ml (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon) water
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1 bone marrow piece (adds richness to the stew)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes in batches and sear them until well-browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits on the bottom.
Add the water, sliced carrots, and bouquet garni. If using bone marrow, place it in the pot now.
Add a pinch of salt and stir gently to combine.
Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the carrots are soft.
Discard the bouquet garni and bone marrow (if added). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4 to 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Total time: 2 to 2.25 hours

Variations

Vegetable additions: Add potatoes, celery, or turnips to bulk up the stew.
Thickened stew: Mash some of the carrots or beef to naturally thicken the broth.
Fresh herbs: Finish with chopped parsley or chives before serving.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store cooled stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Refrigerate and reheat before serving.

2. What is a bouquet garni?

It’s a bundle of herbs—usually rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves—tied with string or wrapped in cheesecloth for easy removal after cooking.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sear the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.

4. Is bone marrow necessary?

It’s optional, but it adds a rich, velvety depth to the stew’s broth.

5. Can I use beef broth instead of water?

Absolutely. Use low-sodium beef broth as a flavorful substitute.

6. How do I thicken the broth without flour?

Simply mash some of the carrots or beef chunks near the end of cooking to naturally thicken the stew.

7. What kind of pot should I use?

A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or soup pot works best for even heat distribution and long simmering.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes—let the stew cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

9. What can I serve with this stew?

Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles all pair perfectly with this stew.

10. Can I add tomato paste or canned tomatoes?

Yes, for a more robust base. Add 1–2 tablespoons of tomato paste when sautéing the onions.

Conclusion

This classic beef stew with bouquet garni is a delicious, slow-simmered dish that highlights the power of simple ingredients and long cooking. It’s hearty, herby, and deeply comforting—perfect for make-ahead meals or a cozy family dinner. Feel free to adjust the vegetables and broth to make it your own!

Jane