Pin A hearty, robust stew featuring tender beef simmered with smoked paprika, garlic, and vegetables perfect for comforting meals on a budget.
This stew quickly became a family favorite during cold evenings when we want something filling and warm.
Ingredients
- Beef chuck: 800 g (1.75 lb) beef chuck cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes
- Onions: 2 medium finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced
- Carrots: 2 large peeled and sliced
- Celery: 2 stalks sliced
- Potatoes: 3 medium peeled and cut into chunks
- Red bell pepper: 1 chopped
- Canned diced tomatoes: 400 g (14 oz)
- Smoked paprika: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Bay leaf: 1
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp freshly ground
- Beef broth: 750 ml (3 cups)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides Remove and set aside
- Step 2:
- Lower heat to medium Add onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Step 3:
- Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly
- Step 4:
- Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell pepper Mix well
- Step 5:
- Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, salt, and pepper
- Step 6:
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine Bring to a simmer
- Step 7:
- Cover and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is very tender and vegetables are cooked through
- Step 8:
- Discard bay leaf Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Serve hot
Pin We love serving this stew with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a hearty family dinner.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot Sharp knife Cutting board Wooden spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans) Check store-bought broth and tomato products for hidden allergens or gluten
Pin This stew gets better the next day making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of beef works best for this dish?
Beef chuck is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking. Brisket or stewing beef are good alternatives.
- → How does smoked paprika influence the flavor?
Smoked paprika imparts a warm, slightly smoky depth that enhances the richness of the beef and complements the garlic's aromatics.
- → Can this be prepared ahead and reheated?
Yes, flavors deepen after resting. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and gently reheat before serving.
- → What sides pair well with this hearty dish?
Crusty bread or steamed rice help soak up the rich broth, balancing the robust flavors perfectly.
- → Is it possible to add a splash of wine to the cooking liquid?
Adding red wine along with the broth enriches the flavor profile, providing extra warmth and complexity.