Ultimate Comfort Food: Recipe for Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots That Will Warm Your Heart

#### Recipe for Beef Stew with Potatoes and CarrotsWhen it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to a hearty beef stew. The combination of tender be……

#### Recipe for Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to a hearty beef stew. The combination of tender beef, flavorful broth, and the wholesome goodness of potatoes and carrots creates a dish that warms both the body and soul. This recipe for beef stew with potatoes and carrots is perfect for family gatherings, chilly evenings, or anytime you crave a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug.

#### Ingredients

To make this delectable stew, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced

- 3 large carrots, sliced

- 1 onion, chopped

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 4 cups of beef broth

- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce

- 2 teaspoons of dried thyme

- 2 bay leaves

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Ingredients**: Begin by chopping the vegetables and cutting the beef into cubes. This makes the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

2. **Brown the Beef**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, which will enhance the flavor of your stew. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

3. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor for your stew.

4. **Combine Ingredients**: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

5. **Simmer**: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

6. **Final Touches**: Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew, allowing it to thicken.

7. **Serve**: Ladle the beef stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

#### Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew

- **Choose the Right Cut of Beef**: For a tender and flavorful stew, beef chuck is ideal due to its marbling and ability to become tender during slow cooking.

- **Don’t Rush the Browning**: Taking the time to brown the meat properly will add depth to the flavor of your stew.

- **Add Fresh Herbs**: While dried herbs work well, adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme towards the end of cooking can elevate the dish.

- **Make It Ahead**: Beef stew often tastes even better the next day, making it a great dish for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

### Conclusion

This recipe for beef stew with potatoes and carrots is a classic that never goes out of style. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. The rich flavors, combined with the heartiness of the vegetables, create a dish that is satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this stew is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!