Imagine a cozy evening where the aroma of a hearty Apple Cider Beef Stew fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This delightful dish combines tender chunks of beef chuck with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider, creating a comforting meal that warms both body and soul. Perfect for chilly nights, this stew is not just a recipe; it's an experience that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Apple Cider Beef Stew!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the beef chuck pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Working in batches, brown the beef pieces on all sides, creating a deep golden-brown crust. Remove browned meat and set aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add tomato paste and dried thyme, stirring to combine and cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
- Return browned beef to the pot and pour in beef broth and apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and reduce heat to low. Cook for approximately 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Add sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Opt for beef chuck, which becomes incredibly tender during the long cooking process. Avoid lean cuts, as they can dry out.
- Sear the Meat Properly: Don’t rush the browning step! Take your time to develop a rich, deep flavor by ensuring each piece of beef gets a good sear.
- Use Quality Apple Cider: The flavor of your stew will greatly depend on the quality of the apple cider you use. Choose a fresh, unfiltered cider for the best results.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to customize the vegetables in your stew. Add mushrooms, parsnips, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra depth of flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile with its fresh notes.With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a memorable dish that will have everyone coming back for more!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg
