The Best Homemade Stew Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade stew recipe is perfect for cozy nights and family dinners, offering warmth and comfort in every bite. You’ll love how easy it is to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. And don’t forget the best part: it makes fantastic leftovers for the next day!
Recipe
This hearty homemade stew is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender meat, vegetables, and rich flavors, it’s easy to make and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Add carrots and potatoes, stirring for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth and water, then stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until meat is tender.
- If a thicker stew is desired, mix flour with a little water and stir into the stew. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, sear the meat in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Substitute beef with chicken or lamb if preferred.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 hours
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4–6
Nutrition
This homemade stew recipe is packed with essential nutrients that provide a balanced meal. Below is the nutritional content per serving.
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 kcal | 22 g | 28 g | 12 g | 6 g | 480 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade stew with crusty bread like a warm baguette or fluffy cornbread—it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor. Sometimes, I’ll add a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to keep things balanced, but it’s hard to beat the cozy combo of stew and bread. What’s your go-to side when serving a hearty stew?
Bread Pairings
When it comes to serving bread with homemade stew, you can’t go wrong with something hearty and comforting. I love crusty bread options like a sourdough boule or a French baguette—they soak up the broth perfectly. For a softer bite, warm cornbread or fluffy dinner rolls are fantastic pairing options. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a slice of garlic bread for an extra flavor boost. Sometimes, I’ll even toast thick slices of ciabatta for a crisp texture. No matter your preference, the right bread types can elevate your stew experience, making every bite even more satisfying.
Side Dishes
Even though stew is a meal all on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take it to the next level. I love adding a variety of salad options to balance the richness, like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy coleslaw. For vegetable sides, roasted carrots or steamed green beans add a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes, I’ll throw in a side of buttery mashed potatoes or cornbread for a comforting touch. These simple additions make the meal feel complete, and they’re easy to prep while the stew simmers. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!
