Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe from Grandma

Why Make This Recipe

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. It brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. The rich flavors and tender beef make it a comforting meal, perfect for chilly days. This stew isn’t just food; it’s a taste of home and tradition. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, anyone can enjoy this classic dish.

How to Make Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into chunks
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef chunks and brown on all sides.
3. Stir in the onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
7. Add the potatoes and carrots, then cook for an additional 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

How to Serve Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Serve the stew hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It’s delicious on its own or can be paired with crusty bread or a side salad. The warmth and rich flavor of the stew makes it a satisfying meal.

How to Store Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Allow the stew to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the stew for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

• For extra flavor, sear the beef chunks well before adding other ingredients.
• You can add other vegetables like green beans or peas for more variety.
• Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. A bit of paprika can add a nice touch.

Variation

You can make a lighter version by using leaner cuts of beef or substituting some of the beef broth with water. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Can I use other meats for this stew?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork instead of beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the meat and then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I add more spices?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices, such as rosemary or bay leaves, to enhance the flavor.

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is a delightful recipe that is simple to make and filled with comforting flavors. Enjoy the process and cherish the delicious results!

Grandma's Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

A comforting and hearty beef stew that warms the heart with rich flavors and tender beef, perfect for chilly days.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into chunks Use well-marbled beef for the best flavor.
• 4 cups beef broth Homemade or store-bought.
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil For browning the meat.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef chunks and brown on all sides.
3. Stir in the onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
7. Add the potatoes and carrots, then cook for an additional 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Notes

Serve the stew hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Delicious on its own or paired with crusty bread or a side salad. Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.