How to Make Italian Style Beef Stew

The Magic of Slow Cooking

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of stew. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day, a hearty meal that fills you up and leaves you satisfied. And when it comes to stews, Italian style beef stew is a classic. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with tender chunks of beef and a medley of vegetables.

The Ingredients

To make this delicious stew, you’ll need the following:

• 1.5 kg of beef chuck, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup of red wine
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups of beef broth
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (optional)

The Process

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides. This step is crucial as it adds a depth of flavor to the stew. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. This process, known as deglazing, helps to incorporate all the flavors into the stew.

Step 4: Add the Rest of the Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Let it Simmer

Pour in the beef broth, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer your stew with a thicker consistency, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Italian style beef stew is a meal in itself, but it can also be served with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Making Italian style beef stew is a labor of love. It requires patience and time, but the end result is a flavorful, hearty meal that’s sure to impress. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of stew, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed.