Classic Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 bay leaves
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups water
• 2 teaspoons demi-glace beef or beef flavor concentrate
• 4 medium to large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 celery stalk, diced

Directions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Season the Flour: In a resealable plastic bag, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of seasoning salt. Shake well to mix.
   • Coat the Beef: Add 2 pounds of beef stew meat to the bag, seal, and shake until the meat is evenly coated with the seasoned flour.
   • Brown the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the floured beef chunks and sear until browned on all sides. This step locks in the juices and enhances flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Cook the Onions: In the same pan used for the beef, add diced onions. Sauté for about 2 minutes until translucent and fragrant. The browned bits from the beef will add extra flavor.
3. Prepare the Stew Base:
   • Deglaze the Pan: Pour ¼ cup of Worcestershire sauce and 2 cups of water into the pan. Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom to enrich the stew.
   • Add Demi-Glace: Stir in 2 teaspoons of demi-glace beef or beef flavor concentrate. This ingredient adds depth to the broth. Substitute with beef bouillon cubes if needed.
   • Combine and Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors and dissolve any remaining flour clumps.
4. Assemble the Stew:
   • Layer the Vegetables: Place the diced sweet potatoes, sliced carrots, and cubed celery in the slow cooker. Add 2 bay leaves for an aromatic flavor.
   • Add the Broth: Pour the prepared broth mixture over the vegetables and beef. Ensure the liquid covers the ingredients; add more water if necessary.
5. Cook the Stew:
   • Slow Cook: Cover and set the slow cooker to low heat. Cook for 8 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
   • Final Touches: After 8 hours, remove the bay leaves. Stir the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Variations & Tips:

• Add More Vegetables: Consider adding parsnips, turnips, or green beans for extra variety and nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: Incorporate red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
• Thicken the Stew: Mash some sweet potatoes and carrots in the slow cooker or stir in a cornstarch slurry during the last hour of cooking.
• Alternative Cooking Methods: If using a stovetop, simmer the stew in a large pot over low heat for 2-3 hours until tender.

Garnish Ideas:

• Serve with fresh parsley or thyme for added color and freshness.
• Accompany with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

This beef stew recipe epitomizes the joys of home-cooked comfort food. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth, it offers a taste of tradition and togetherness. Perfect for any occasion, this stew brings warmth and satisfaction to every meal, making it a cherished part of your family’s culinary heritage.