Winter can be a soul-crushing season, with frigid temperatures and endless days of snow and ice. While the chill may make it tempting to hibernate under a pile of blankets, there’s no need to sacrifice your taste buds this winter. There’s no better way to warm up with a comforting bowl of beef stew recipe. Not only is this dish the epitome of cozy, but it’s also loaded with health benefits that will help you power through the chilly season.
The Health Benefits of Beef Stew
For starters, beef stew is packed with protein that will help you build and repair muscles, as well as keep you feeling full for longer. Beef is also a great source of iron, which is essential for oxygen transport and energy production. On top of that, beef also provides your body with important nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium.
Vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions featured in beef stew recipe are also incredibly nutritious. These veggies are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help boost your immune system, lower inflammation, and support overall health.
The combination of ingredients found in beef stew provides a powerful nutritional punch that can help you fight off illness, improve your energy levels and keep you feeling satisfied.
Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds stew meat
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 large carrots, peeled and diced
– 3 celery stalks, diced
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of flour
– 2 tablespoons of butter
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until softened.
3. Transfer the beef, onion, and garlic to a large pot or Dutch oven.
4. Add the beef broth, red wine, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and butter to create a roux.
7. Add the roux to the stew and stir until the sauce thickens.
8. Serve hot.
FAQs About Beef Stew
Q: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can cook this recipe in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and cook the onions and garlic in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply heat on the stove or in the microwave until warm.
Q: Can I substitute the red wine with something else?
A: If you don’t want to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth or tomato juice.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, you can use a different type of meat such as pork or chicken, but the cooking times may vary.
In conclusion, a warm bowl of beef stew is the perfect way to fend off the winter blues. Not only is it comforting and delicious, but it’s also loaded with health benefits that can help you power through the season. So embrace the chill, and warm up with this hearty and nutritious beef stew recipe.
