Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Hearty and flavorful, Herb and Beef Stew with Rice warms the soul and fills the belly. This recipe has become a staple in many households for its rich flavors and nutritional profile. Read on to discover why this dish is a must-try and how you can make it at home!
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Herb and Beef Stew with Rice Recipe: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Tender chunks of beef simmered with aromatic herbs, vegetables, and fluffy rice in a rich broth. This comforting stew is a complete meal in one pot, with layers of savory flavor that develop as it cooks.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season beef with salt and pepper, then brown in batches (about 5 minutes per batch). Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste.
- Simmer stew: Return beef to pot. Add thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours until beef is tender.
- Add rice: Stir in rice, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Finish: Remove bay leaves. Stir in peas and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Time-saver: Use instant pot – brown meat on Sauté mode, then pressure cook for 35 minutes with broth, add rice and cook 5 more minutes.
- Herb variations: Fresh herbs (2 tbsp each) can replace dried – add at the end.
- Make ahead: Flavors deepen if made 1 day ahead (store rice separately to prevent mushiness).
- Gluten-free: Ensure broth is gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Why You’ll Love Herb and Beef Stew with Rice
Perfect for Families
Families come together over a warm bowl of stew, and this dish is no exception. Its robust flavors and tender beef make it a hit among both adults and children. Additionally, the simplicity of the recipe allows for quick preparation, making it the ideal option for busy weeknights.
Nutritional Benefits
Packed with vegetables and lean meat, this stew provides a balance of proteins, vitamins, and fibers. Carrots and celery are not only nutritious but bring color and sweetness to the dish. Moreover, using broth adds depth without unnecessary fat.
Flexibility at Its Best
This stew is highly adaptable. You can easily customize it to your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you want to add more vegetables, use a different type of meat, or even make it vegetarian, the options are endless. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, utilizing affordable ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
Beef Stew Meat
The heart of this dish is the beef stew meat, usually chuck, which becomes tender as it cooks. If you prefer, you can substitute it with pork, lamb, or even chicken for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables
The classic combination of carrots and celery enhance both the taste and texture. You can include parsnips or bell peppers for additional flavor. Always use fresh vegetables when possible for optimum taste.
Herbs and Seasoning
The mix of thyme and rosemary gives the stew an aromatic profile. Instead of dried herbs, feel free to use fresh ones. Just remember to adjust the quantities since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Ingredient Preparation
Step 1 – Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by cubing the beef into bite-sized pieces and gathering all your vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the carrots and celery. This mise en place will streamline your cooking process.
Step 2 – Season and Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This process takes about 5-7 minutes, and it’s key to developing a rich flavor base.
Step 3 – Building Flavor
Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and golden (around 3-5 minutes). Incorporate the other vegetables, tomato paste, and herbs to create a cohesive flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 – Initial Preparation
Before cooking, prepare the beef and vegetables as previously noted. Preheat your stove to medium-high heat and gather all cooking utensils to have a smooth experience.
Step 2 – Ingredient Assembly
Add the beef back to the pot, followed by the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and bay leaf. Stir everything well to ensure all ingredients are distributed evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3 – Cooking and Finishing Touches
Reduce the heat to low once boiling and let the stew simmer for at least 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. If you’d like a thicker stew, whisk in a tablespoon of flour during the last 10 minutes of cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the meat is tender and the stew has thickened to your liking.
Tips for an Even Tastier Version
Adding Extra Ingredients
Feel free to throw in some additional vegetables like peas or corn during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. You can add spices like red pepper flakes for a pinch of heat, or garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Techniques to Enhance Flavor
Marinate the beef in Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs for an hour or overnight before cooking. This will deepen the flavor and tenderness. Always taste your stew and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Adjustments for Preferences
If you or your guests follow a special diet, consider swapping beef with mushrooms for a vegetarian option or using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb version.
Recipe Variations and Adaptations
Vegetarian Option
Replace the beef with a medley of hearty vegetables and beans or lentils. You could also use a meat substitute like tempeh, ensuring a similar texture while keeping it plant-based.
Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Option
For gluten intolerance, use gluten-free flour or skip thickening altogether. Instead of rice, consider serving over zucchini noodles or riced cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.
Other Adaptations
Make use of seasonal vegetables to keep the dish fresh and exciting. For a hearty winter variation, add root vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes. In summer, fresh garden zucchini or bell peppers can be incorporated for a lighter dish.
Serving Suggestions
Salad or Soup Ideas
Pair your stew with a light side salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette, or serve a warm bowl of homemade vegetable soup to start the meal.
Hearty Sides
For a more filling experience, a slice of homemade bread or a side of roasted vegetables complements the stew beautifully, adding texture and flavor contrast.
Drink Recommendations
A hearty red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs wonderfully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea or a citrusy mocktail can be delightful.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Store any uneaten stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, portion the stew in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Techniques
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If thawing frozen stew, allow it to sit in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Portioning Tips
Consider meal prepping by portioning the stew out for lunches. It can be a wholesome, ready-to-go meal, making your week much easier.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Nutritional Values per Serving
Approximately 360 calories, 20g protein, 12g carbs, and 25g fat, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.
Ingredient Benefits
Beef is rich in iron and protein, essential for energy and muscle repair, while vegetables provide various essential vitamins and minerals.
Recommended Portions
A typical serving is about 1 cup of stew with ½ cup of rice. Adjust portion sizes based on personal dietary needs and lifestyle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Issue 1 – Overcrowding the Pan
Brown the beef in smaller batches to ensure it sears properly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning.
Issue 2 – Skipping the Browning Step
Browning the meat and vegetables builds a crucial base flavor, so don’t skip this step, thinking it’s just a time-saver.
Issue 3 – Not Tasting as You Cook
Always taste your stew while it simmers, adding seasoning as needed. This ensures the final product meets your flavor expectations.
Inspiring Conclusion
Herb and Beef Stew with Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a gateway to family gatherings and comforting evenings at home. Feel encouraged to personalize the recipe based on your tastes and dietary needs. Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so share it with loved ones, create memories around the table, and savor every delicious bite!
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
- What are the best substitutes for beef stew meat?
- Pork, chicken, or meat alternatives such as tempeh or seitan work beautifully.
- Can I freeze this stew?
- Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely before portioning into airtight containers and freezing.
- How can I thicken the stew without flour?
- Use cornstarch mixed with water or pureed beans for a gluten-free thickener alternative.
- Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
- Yes! Simply add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the pot while cooking.
- Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
- Indeed! Brown the meat and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- What if I run out of beef broth?
- You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water, but add in extra seasonings to enhance the flavor.
- Are there any side dishes that pair well?
- Homemade bread, a light salad, or roasted seasonal vegetables make excellent companions.
- How do I know when the beef is fully cooked?
- The beef should be fork-tender and easy to shred, which usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking.
- Can I add different vegetables?
- Certainly! Feel free to include your favorites or whatever you have on hand, such as bell peppers or green beans.
Cooking should be an enjoyable experience. Experiment with this recipe, make it your own, and let the flavors take you on a delicious journey with each spoonful. Enjoy your cooking adventures with Herb and Beef Stew with Rice!