Vegetable Beef Stew Recipe for Hearty, Comforting Meals

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of vegetable beef stew to comfort the soul and satisfy the hunger after a long day. This classic dish combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth.

It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a wholesome, nourishing meal. Not only is this stew deeply flavorful, but it also packs a nutritional punch, balancing protein, fiber, and vitamins in every bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking to try your hand at slow-cooked meals, this vegetable beef stew recipe is straightforward and immensely rewarding. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a delicious, satisfying stew that your whole family will love.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. Let’s dive into making this classic stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable beef stew is a timeless favorite for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful—slow-cooked beef paired with aromatic herbs and fresh vegetables creates layers of rich taste that develop beautifully as it simmers.

The tender beef chunks melt in your mouth, while the vegetables add a wonderful texture and natural sweetness.

Another reason to love this recipe is its nutritional balance. It contains a variety of vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals, combined with protein-packed beef to keep you energized.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for low-carb or paleo diets by swapping out certain veggies.

Finally, this stew is a one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. It’s perfect for meal prep or for feeding a crowd.

And if you enjoy hearty, wholesome meals, you’ll find this recipe becomes a staple in your cooking rotation.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Optional: Slow cooker (if preferred for slow cooking)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, avoiding overcrowding, and sear until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Add tomato paste and herbs: Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
5. Deglaze the pot: Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits. This adds incredible flavor to your stew.
6. Combine beef and vegetables: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the remaining beef broth, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir well.
7. Simmer the stew: Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
8. Add peas and Worcestershire sauce: About 10 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas and Worcestershire sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
9. Finish and serve: Remove bay leaves. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for extra comfort.

Tips & Variations

For a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Feel free to swap vegetables based on the season—parsnips, turnips, or butternut squash make excellent additions.

For a smoky twist, add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or try incorporating a splash of red wine during deglazing.

Slow cooker users can brown the beef and sauté the aromatics in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable beef stew pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Serve with a slice of warm crusty bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up all the delicious broth.

For a more filling meal, serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.

For a fresh contrast, a crisp green salad or steamed green beans with lemon adds a bright note to the hearty stew. And if you enjoy a touch of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor beautifully.

Conclusion

Making this vegetable beef stew is like creating a little pot of magic in your kitchen. With its rich, savory broth and tender beef surrounded by colorful, nutritious vegetables, it’s a meal that delivers comfort and nourishment in every spoonful.

The recipe is flexible enough to accommodate what you have on hand, and it’s perfect for slow cooking or stovetop simmering.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals ahead, this stew will become a beloved classic in your recipe collection. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love, 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious, or our Awesome Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Easy Meals for more hearty and wholesome ideas.

Happy cooking!

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