Hearty Beef Stew in Bread Bowls
A comforting beef stew served in warm, chewy bread bowls, perfect for cold weather and family gatherings.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 550kcal
Ingredients
Stew Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes Fatty and tender meat for the best flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth Savory base enhancing all flavors.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary Adds warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme Earthy notes that complement beef.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce Provides an umami kick.
- 1 bay leaf bay leaf Adds depth—remove before serving.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Helps thicken the stew.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil For searing the beef.
- 1 onion onion, chopped For sweetness and depth.
- 2 garlic cloves garlic cloves, minced Adds aromatic flavor.
- 3 carrots carrots, sliced Provides sweetness and color.
- 3 potatoes potatoes, diced Makes the stew hearty.
- 2 celery stalks celery stalks, chopped Adds savory goodness.
- 1 14 oz canned diced tomatoes Adds acidity and brightness.
- 1 cup frozen peas Adds color and crunch.
- 4 round bread loaves (for serving) Rustic bread for the stew.
- butter butter (optional, for brushing the bread) For added flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasonings.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the coated beef until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Cooking
- Return browned beef to the pot, along with sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped celery, and canned diced tomatoes.
- Pour in the beef broth, add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in frozen peas. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serving
- While the stew finishes, slice off the tops of the bread loaves and hollow out the insides. Optionally, brush the insides with butter and toast in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Fill the toasted bread bowls with hot beef stew, top with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Don’t rush the browning of the beef for maximum flavor. Customize vegetables as desired. Consider adding fresh herbs before serving.