Au Bon Pain Copycat Recipes Beef And Vegetable Stew Guide

If you’ve ever savored the rich, hearty flavors of Au Bon Pain’s famous beef and vegetable stew, you know it’s a comforting classic that warms the soul. Now, imagine recreating that very same deliciousness right in your own kitchen with a copycat recipe that’s both simple and satisfying.

This Au Bon Pain copycat beef and vegetable stew blends tender chunks of beef with vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth that’s infused with herbs and spices. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nourishing meal that feels like a warm embrace, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home cooking repertoire.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner looking to try your hand at a classic stew, this recipe provides clear, step-by-step instructions that ensure success every time. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up fresh vegetables and enjoy a protein-packed meal that’s both hearty and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef and vegetable stew is a perfect balance of robust flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll be excited to make it:

• Rich, savory broth: Slow-simmered with aromatic herbs and tender beef for deep flavor.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery.
• Comfort food classic: Feels like a warm hug on a cold day, easy to make and serve.
• Versatile: Can be adapted to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Great for meal prep: Improves in flavor the next day and freezes well.

Ingredients

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

Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Mixing bowl for dredging beef

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, toss the beef with the all-purpose flour, coating each piece evenly. This helps create a nice crust and thickens the stew later.
2. Brown the beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Brown all sides for about 3-4 minutes per batch, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release the flavorful browned bits. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Add liquid and seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, then add the beef broth, dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil.
6. Simmer the stew: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Add vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes to the pot. Continue simmering, covered, for another 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
8. Adjust seasoning and finish: Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
9. Garnish and serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Tips & Variations

For an even richer flavor, brown the beef in batches and don’t rush this step—it’s key to a deep, savory stew.

• Make it gluten-free: Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for dredging.
• Vegetarian twist: Substitute beef with hearty mushrooms or a mix of root vegetables and increase vegetable broth.
• Slow cooker option: After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika for subtle heat and smokiness.
• Extra thick stew: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the simmering stew in the last 10 minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This beef and vegetable stew is hearty enough to be served on its own, but pairing it with the right sides elevates the meal even further:

• Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping into the savory broth.
• A simple mixed green salad lightly dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting base.
• Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for an extra veggie boost.
• For a lighter touch, serve alongside a bowl of fresh seasonal vegetables.

Conclusion

This Au Bon Pain copycat beef and vegetable stew is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Its rich, hearty flavors combine tender beef and fresh vegetables in a perfect harmony that’s sure to satisfy.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply craving a soul-soothing meal, this stew delivers on every level. The recipe is flexible, allowing for easy modifications to suit your taste or dietary needs, and it also reheats beautifully for leftovers.

Don’t forget to explore other recipes to complement your stew, like the Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love or try your hand at a delightful Banana Pancake Recipe Men Eat Vegan Too Made Easy for dessert.

Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious homemade comfort food!

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