Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience? This Round Steak Beef Stew is not just a recipe—it's a journey of rich flavors, tender meat, and heartwarming comfort that will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with irresistible aromas. Whether you're looking to impress your family or craving a soul-satisfying meal that promises to chase away any hunger pangs, this classic American stew is your ultimate solution!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds round steak, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cut the round steak into 1-inch cubes and set aside. Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed round steak in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear the meat on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned steak from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the pot with the onions. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Return the browned round steak to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, making sure to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Add the dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about
- 5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
- After the cooking time, check the tenderness of the beef. It should be fork-tender and the flavors well combined. If needed, adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper.
- Once the stew is ready, remove it from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld further.
- Serve the round steak beef stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal.
Tips
- Meat Matters: Always choose a well-marbled round steak and cut it into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Searing Secrets: Take your time when browning the meat. A deep golden-brown crust develops incredible flavor foundations for your stew.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Patience is key! Simmer the stew on low heat to allow the meat to become fork-tender and let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Don't Overcrowd: When searing meat, work in batches to prevent steaming and ensure a perfect caramelized exterior.
- Vegetable Prep: Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and a harmonious texture throughout the stew.
- Flavor Boosting: Consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance and reheat for an effortless meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
