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Cozy Grandma’s Apron Kitchen Memory Stew

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A warm, hearty stew recipe passed down through generations, combining tender meat, rich broth, and wholesome vegetables for a comforting homemade meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds beef chuck or lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or Russet)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Cut the stew meat into 1-inch cubes, peel and chop the carrots, potatoes, onion, and celery. Mince the garlic. (Prep time: 15 minutes)
  2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meat in batches for 5-7 minutes per batch until a deep golden crust forms. Transfer browned meat to a plate.
  3. In the same pot, add diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in 1 cup dry red wine (or broth if skipping wine), scraping the bottom to lift browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 2 bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Return browned meat to the pot and pour in 4 cups broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  8. About 10 minutes before serving, whisk 2 tbsp flour with cold water to make a slurry. Stir into stew to thicken. Cook uncovered, stirring gently.
  9. Add cubed potatoes and simmer for another 15 minutes until tender but not falling apart. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Remove bay leaves and let stew rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If stew becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or water. For richer flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end. Use cornstarch instead of flour for gluten-free. Leftovers taste better the next day. Keep knives sharp for easier prep.

Nutrition

Keywords: stew, comfort food, beef stew, homemade stew, easy stew recipe, cozy meal, slow simmer, hearty dinner

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/cozy-grandmas-apron-kitchen-memory-stew-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/