This recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy homestyle beef stew featuring tender beef, fluffy potatoes, and sweet corn. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this one-pan wonder minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste. We'll explore variations, answer common questions, and ensure you create a delicious meal your family will love.
What Makes This Beef Stew "Thick and Easy"?
The "thick" element comes from the hearty potatoes and the natural thickening that occurs as the beef simmers in its own juices. We'll use specific techniques to ensure a rich, satisfying consistency without relying on thickeners like flour or cornstarch. The "easy" aspect stems from the minimal prep work and single-pan cooking method. Everything cooks together, reducing dishes and simplifying the cooking process.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 bay leaf for added depth of flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This browning step adds crucial depth of flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cubed potatoes, corn, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, you can remove about a cup of the cooking liquid and simmer it uncovered for 10-15 minutes to reduce it. Then, stir it back into the stew.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf (if used) before serving. Enjoy hot!
What Kind of Beef is Best for This Recipe?
H2: What Kind of Beef is Best for This Recipe?
Beef stew meat is ideal because it's naturally tougher and becomes incredibly tender after a long simmer. Chuck roast or other cuts with good marbling will also work well. Avoid leaner cuts as they may become dry during the cooking process.
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
H2: Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, peas, or green beans. Just keep in mind that different vegetables have different cooking times, so you may need to adjust the simmering time accordingly. Add harder vegetables like carrots and celery earlier in the cooking process.
How Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
H2: How Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
This recipe translates beautifully to a slow cooker! Brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
H2: How Do I Store Leftovers?
Allow the stew to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Perfect Thick and Easy Beef Stew:
- Don't overcrowd the pot when browning the beef. This ensures proper browning and prevents steaming.
- Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices.
This Thick and Easy Homestyle Beef with Potatoes and Corn is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, delicious flavor, and heartiness make it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!
