Smoked Paprika Garlic Beef

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

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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.