Au Bon Pain Beef and Vegetable Stew Recipe Made Easy

Few dishes evoke the comforting warmth and hearty satisfaction that a classic beef and vegetable stew delivers. Inspired by the beloved flavors of Au Bon Pain’s rendition, this beef and vegetable stew recipe is a perfect weeknight meal that combines tender chunks of beef with fresh, vibrant vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a soul-soothing dinner, this stew offers layers of flavor that will make your kitchen smell divine and your taste buds sing.

This recipe balances the robust taste of beef with the natural sweetness of carrots, celery, and potatoes, enriched by fragrant herbs and a touch of tomato paste. It’s ideal for chilly evenings when you want something nourishing and filling but still straightforward to prepare.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate wholesome vegetables into your diet without compromising on flavor. Let’s dive into how to recreate this classic, delicious stew right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef and vegetable stew is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the vegetables and seasoning to suit your preference.

The stew’s slow simmering process makes the beef exceptionally tender, while the vegetables soak up all the delicious broth flavors, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.

It’s also a great make-ahead meal—perfect for busy families or meal preppers. Simply prepare it in the morning or the night before, and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Not only is it filling and hearty, but it also packs a nutritional punch with a variety of vitamins and minerals from the assortment of vegetables. If you love recipes that are both comforting and wholesome, this stew will quickly become a staple in your recipe box.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional but recommended)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas, added at the end
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Bowl for prepping vegetables

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. Sear the beef: Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pot, and sear on all sides until browned. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pot: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Let the wine reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add broth and seasonings: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, then add the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer the stew: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover tightly and let it simmer gently for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
7. Add vegetables: Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
8. Finish the stew: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaves, adjust salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer flavor, marinate the beef cubes in red wine and herbs overnight before cooking.”

To make this stew even heartier, try adding other root vegetables such as parsnips or turnips. For a gluten-free option, ensure your beef broth is certified gluten-free.

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Want to add a smoky twist? Include a teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the herbs.

For those who prefer a slow cooker method, sear the beef and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

If you love exploring more wholesome recipes, don’t miss our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or discover hearty plant-based options with the Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

For a flavorful homemade spice blend, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This beef and vegetable stew shines when paired with warm, crusty bread—perfect for soaking up every last bit of the luscious broth. Alternatively, serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles for an indulgent meal.

For a fresh contrast, consider a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed with lemon zest and olive oil. A glass of robust red wine complements the stew beautifully, enhancing the depth of flavors.

Conclusion

This Au Bon Pain-inspired beef and vegetable stew is a versatile classic that never goes out of style. It’s the perfect blend of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs, simmered slowly to develop rich, comforting flavors.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this stew offers both simplicity and sophistication in one pot.

With easy-to-follow instructions and flexible ingredient options, it’s a recipe that welcomes creativity while delivering a satisfying meal every time. Don’t forget to explore more delicious and wholesome recipes like our Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals to keep your culinary adventures fresh and exciting.

Happy cooking and enjoy the cozy goodness of this timeless stew!

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