Description
Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish made with tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich broth. Perfect for chilly nights, this stew will warm your soul and fill your belly with comfort.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups beef broth (or stock)
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef stew meat in batches, browning on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Build the stew: Add the browned beef, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
- Season the stew: Add dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Stir and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the stew: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked.
- Add peas: Stir in frozen peas 10 minutes before the stew is done for added color and sweetness.
- Final seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove bay leaf.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Notes
- Add more vegetables: Include parsnips, turnips, or celery for extra flavor.
- Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for heat.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef and sauté vegetables, then transfer to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
- Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with onions and garlic for an earthy flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
