This hearty beef stew features a secret herb mix that makes it taste exceptionally good. Discover the blend of spices that gives this classic dish an unforgettable depth of flavor.
Author:Mei Sprout
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 55 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Slow Simmering/Braising
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup dry red wine (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (Secret Herb Mix)
1 bay leaf
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Instructions
Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches; remove and set aside.
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute more.
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well.
Pour in red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it reduce slightly.
Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, allspice, and the bay leaf.
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
Add the cubed potatoes. Continue to simmer, covered, until the beef is tender and potatoes are cooked through, about 30-45 minutes more.
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
The secret herb mix features allspice, which adds a warm, complex note unexpected in traditional stew.
For a richer flavor, use a high-quality, full-bodied red wine.
If you prefer a thicker stew without flour, mash a few cooked potatoes against the side of the pot before serving.
This stew tastes even better the next day once the flavors have fully melded.