Cozy Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew for Ultimate Comfort

When the chilly winds start to blow, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew. Picture this: tender beef that practically melts in your mouth, vibrant carrots bursting with sweetness, and a rich tomato sauce that wraps around everything like a warm hug. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful.

This stew isn’t just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. I remember the first time I made it for friends – they were skeptical at first, but after one taste, they were hooked! This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something hearty and delicious.

I still chuckle when I think about how my friends couldn’t stop raving about it – they were ready to form a fan club!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Chuck Roast: This cut has great marbling for tenderness and flavor; ask your butcher for the best selection.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; choose firm ones without blemishes for the best texture.

• Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a rich base; look for brands without added sugars or preservatives.

• Onions: Yellow onions work best here; they caramelize beautifully to enhance the stew’s depth of flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic goodness; try smashing the cloves lightly before chopping to release more oils.

• Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness while allowing all flavors to shine.

• Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enriches the stew; its fruity notes complement the other ingredients perfectly.

• Herbs: Thyme and Bay Leaves: Fresh thyme imparts an earthy aroma; bay leaves enhance the overall flavor profile subtly.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate each ingredient’s natural flavors; always taste as you go!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by dicing the beef into uniform cubes of about 1 inch. Slice the onions thinly and chop garlic finely. Peel and slice carrots into thick rounds.

Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add beef cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides – about 5 minutes each batch.

Add Aromatics: Once beef is browned, toss in onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Tomatoes: Stir in sliced carrots followed by canned tomatoes. Mix well to combine all ingredients into a colorful medley that looks irresistible.

Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Add beef broth just until everything is submerged. Toss in thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper – let those flavors mingle as they simmer!

Simmer Away!: Reduce heat to low, cover pot with a lid, and let stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Check occasionally until beef is tender enough to fall apart with fork pressure.

Serve this steaming bowl of joy with fresh bread or over rice for an unforgettable meal that warms both heart and soul! Enjoy every spoonful as you bask in compliments from family or friends who will undoubtedly ask for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For the best results, start by searing the beef until browned, then sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add carrots and tomatoes next, letting them mingle in the pot before adding broth. Simmer for about an hour to develop those rich flavors. Finally, stir in your seasonings towards the end for a burst of freshness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the carrots for potatoes or add bell peppers for extra color. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or paprika to give your stew a unique twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some red wine during simmering for a deeper flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop or in a microwave until heated through to maintain its delicious flavors and textures.

The first time I made this stew, my friends cleaned their bowls faster than I could serve it! Their compliments made me realize how easy it is to impress with this comforting dish.

FAQ

What type of beef is best for Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew?

For optimal tenderness and flavor, choose chuck roast or brisket when making your Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew. These cuts become wonderfully tender when slow-cooked, allowing all those delicious juices to permeate the dish.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just sear your beef first for added flavor, then transfer everything into a slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender and flavorful.

What can I serve with my Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew?

This hearty stew pairs well with crusty bread or fluffy rice. For a lighter option, serve it over steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the stew.

How can I thicken my stew if it’s too watery?

If your stew turns out too watery, simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew while simmering until thickened. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered longer to reduce excess liquid naturally.

Conclusion for Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew

In conclusion, mastering this Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew will bring comfort and joy to your dining table. From perfecting your cooking process to adding personal touches and knowing how to store leftovers properly, these tips will ensure you create a flavorful masterpiece every time. Don’t forget that sharing this dish with friends can turn an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable feast!

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Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm your soul with this comforting Beef & Carrot Tomato Stew, featuring tender beef simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce, complemented by sweet carrots and aromatic herbs. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this stew is a culinary delight that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, diced into 1-inch cubes
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into thick rounds
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (no added sugars)
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep ingredients: Dice the beef, slice onions, mince garlic, and cut carrots.
2. Sear beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes in batches, browning on all sides (about 5 minutes per batch).
3. Add aromatics: Stir in onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
4. Combine veggies and tomatoes: Add sliced carrots and canned tomatoes; mix well.
5. Pour in broth and seasonings: Add beef broth until submerged; toss in thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and let stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is fork-tender.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Stewing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 85mg