This Rustic Cranberry-Apple Beef Stew is a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly days. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet apple cider adds a unique twist to classic beef stew, making it both comforting and intriguing.
Beef chuck is your go-to cut for stew — it becomes wonderfully tender after a long simmer. Olive oil is used to sear the beef, locking in flavor. Onion and garlic form the aromatic base, adding depth to your stew. Beef broth provides a savory foundation, while cranberry juice and apple cider bring a sweet-tart balance. Tomato paste enhances umami. Carrots, celery, and potatoes add texture and heartiness. Dried cranberries offer bursts of tartness that complement the stew. Thyme and rosemary infuse the dish with warmth and earthiness. Finally, salt and pepper are for seasoning to taste.
This stew pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors nicely.
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You'll want it hot enough to sear the beef, so it locks in all those juices. Add your beef cubes to the pot, making sure not to overcrowd them. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once they're nice and brown, remove them from the pot and set them aside.
In the same pot, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in your tomato paste, cooking it for a minute to get rid of the raw taste. This step really deepens the flavor.
Next, pour in the beef broth, cranberry juice, and apple cider. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot — that's where the flavor's at! Return your beef to the pot and bring everything to a simmer.
Now, add in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and cubed potatoes. Toss in your dried cranberries, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. The beef should be tender and the flavors melded beautifully.
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes it might need a bit more salt or a sprinkle of pepper. And there you have it — a cozy pot of stew ready to be enjoyed!
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