As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of *autumn harvest beef stew* to wrap you in comfort. I can still remember those chilly evenings spent with my family, gathered around the table, as the aroma of simmering beef and fresh vegetables filled the kitchen. It’s a dish that not only warms your belly but also your heart. This hearty stew is packed with seasonal veggies, and trust me, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. So grab your pot, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a cozy favorite!
Ingredients List
For this *autumn harvest beef stew*, you’ll need some hearty ingredients that really bring out the flavors of the season. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds beef chuck: Make sure it’s cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. This cut is perfect for stewing as it becomes tender and flavorful.
- 4 cups beef broth: Use a good-quality broth for rich flavor—homemade is best if you have it!
- 2 cups carrots: Chopped into bite-sized pieces, these add sweetness and color.
- 2 cups potatoes: Diced into cubes, I prefer Yukon Gold for their creamy texture.
- 1 cup onions: Chopped finely to enhance the base flavor of the stew.
- 1 cup celery: Adds a nice crunch and depth—chop it small to blend seamlessly.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced for that aromatic kick. Fresh garlic is a must!
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: This deepens the flavor and gives a lovely richness.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Dried or fresh, it’s a classic herb that complements beef beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon rosemary: Another lovely herb that adds a warm, woodsy note.
- Salt and pepper: To taste—these are essential for bringing all the flavors together!
How to Prepare *Autumn Harvest Beef Stew*
Making this *autumn harvest beef stew* is simpler than it seems! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s perfect for those chilly evenings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, heat a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot to get that beef browning perfectly.
- Add the 2 pounds of beef chuck to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial—don’t skip it! It adds amazing flavor to your stew.
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the 1 cup of chopped onions and the 4 cloves of minced garlic. Cook these until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, add the 2 cups of chopped carrots, 2 cups of diced potatoes, and 1 cup of chopped celery to the pot. Give everything a good stir to mix it up!
- Now, mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and 1 teaspoon of rosemary. This will elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
- Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking is what makes the beef tender.
- After simmering, taste your stew and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve it hot, and don’t forget to enjoy every spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, hearty flavors: The combination of tender beef and seasonal vegetables creates a dish that’s bursting with taste.
- Warmth and comfort: Each spoonful wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly autumn evenings.
- Simple ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find at your local market, making it accessible for everyone.
- Healthier option: Packed with veggies and protein, it’s a nourishing choice that keeps you satisfied.
- Better the next day: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful!
Tips for Success
To make your *autumn harvest beef stew* truly shine, here are some of my go-to tips. First, don’t rush the browning of the beef—this caramelization is key for flavor! If you want to add a bit of depth, consider browning the onions before adding the garlic. For a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish beautifully. Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies, like parsnips or squash, to mix things up! And when serving, a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for a serving of *autumn harvest beef stew*. Each cup packs about 350 calories, making it a hearty choice for a meal. You’ll find around 15 grams of fat, including 6 grams of saturated fat, and 25 grams of protein to keep you satisfied. The dish also contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, with 4 grams of sugar and 5 grams of fiber, which is great for digestion. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but they give you a good idea of what to expect!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect *autumn harvest beef stew*? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I hear often:
Common Questions
Can I use other cuts of beef? Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal, you can use brisket or round cuts. Just remember, tougher cuts benefit from slow cooking.
What if I don’t have beef broth? No problem! You can substitute it with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or even water, but it won’t be as rich.
How do I store leftovers? Store your stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Can I freeze the stew? Yes! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What other veggies can I add? Feel free to get creative! Root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even squash can make great additions to your stew.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious *autumn harvest beef stew*, storing leftovers is a breeze! Just let the stew cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for meal prep! If you want to save it for later, feel free to freeze it. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave a little space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Enjoy that cozy goodness again!
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Autumn Harvest Beef Stew: 7 Steps to Heartwarming Comfort
A hearty autumn harvest beef stew filled with seasonal vegetables.
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups carrots, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat.
- Add beef and brown on all sides.
- Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add carrots, potatoes, and celery.
- Mix in tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- This stew tastes better the next day.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or squash.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: autumn harvest beef stew, beef stew, seasonal stew, hearty stew