Beef & Vegetable Stew (with French Onion Flavor)

This Beef & Vegetable Stew brings a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings. The rich, savory broth is enhanced by a touch of soy sauce and the classic sweetness of French onion flavor, making this dish both satisfying and comforting. With tender beef and a medley of vegetables, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. beef (stew meat or chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown it on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped carrot, potatoes, and zucchini. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to lightly soften the vegetables.
4. Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the beef broth and soy sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the stew to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is cooked through.
6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the stew hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add Herbs: For added depth of flavor, you can throw in a sprig of thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves while the stew simmers. Remove the herbs before serving.
• Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the zucchini or carrots for other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add Wine: For a richer base, add 1/2 cup of red wine after browning the beef and let it cook down slightly before adding the broth.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This stew freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the stew thickens too much.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of beef?
   Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or sirloin. Just make sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces and brown them well for the best flavor.
2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
   Yes, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. What if I don’t have beef broth?
   You can use vegetable broth, chicken broth, or even water with bouillon cubes if beef broth is unavailable.
4. Can I use frozen vegetables?
   While fresh vegetables provide the best texture, frozen vegetables can also be used. Just add them in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
5. Can I make this stew spicier?
   Yes, you can add some chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper for heat, or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
6. How can I make this stew thicker?
   You can mash some of the potatoes in the stew to naturally thicken the broth. Alternatively, you can stir in a slurry made of cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking.
7. Can I skip the soy sauce?
   Yes, if you’re sensitive to soy or prefer a different flavor, you can leave it out. You could substitute with Worcestershire sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a different depth of flavor.
8. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
   Yes, this stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. It’s a great dish to make ahead for meal prep.
9. Can I add more protein?
   Absolutely! You can add more beef or even sausage, or mix in some beans like kidney beans or black beans for a heartier stew.
10. What should I serve with this stew?
    This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple salad, or even a side of mashed potatoes for extra comfort.

Conclusion

This Beef & Vegetable Stew with French Onion Flavor is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s full of flavor. The tender beef and hearty vegetables are complemented by a savory broth with just the right hint of French onion seasoning. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for colder days or any time you crave a cozy, homemade stew.

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