Savory Beef Stew

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 8

Savory Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty and satisfying. This recipe is tailored for your Instant Pot, making it both quick and easy. Dive into a bowl of rich flavors and tender beef that feels like home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy with the Instant Pot — ready in under an hour!
  • Rich, deep flavors thanks to a perfect blend of ingredients.
  • Perfect for meal prep — tastes even better the next day.
  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 large carrots, sliced
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp water

Ingredients Explained

The star of the show is the beef chuck, which becomes deliciously tender under pressure. Olive oil is used to brown the beef, adding a layer of flavor from the start. The onion and garlic form the aromatic base, enhancing the stew's depth. Beef broth is the backbone of the stew, providing savory richness. Tomato paste adds a subtle tang and umami boost, while Worcestershire sauce introduces a complex, savory note. Thyme brings a hint of earthiness, and salt and black pepper balance the flavors. Potatoes and carrots contribute heartiness and sweetness. Frozen peas are added last minute for a pop of color and freshness. Finally, a mixture of flour and water thickens the stew to the perfect consistency.

Tips & Tricks

  • For more flavor, marinate the beef cubes in Worcestershire sauce for an hour before cooking.
  • If the stew is too thick, add a splash more beef broth to reach the desired consistency.
  • Don't skip browning the beef; it adds a deep, rich flavor.

Detailed Instructions

Start by setting your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and pour in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. This step is crucial for sealing in the juices and flavor. Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.

With the pot still on Sauté mode, toss in the onion and garlic. Stir occasionally, cooking until they soften and become fragrant. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Next, pour in the beef broth and stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Return the browned beef to the pot, along with the potatoes and carrots. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Set it to Pressure Cook on high for 35 minutes.

After cooking, perform a quick release of the pressure. Be cautious of the steam! Open the lid and set the pot to Sauté mode again.

In a small bowl, mix the flour and water together until smooth, then stir this mixture into the stew. This will thicken it nicely. Add the peas and let them heat through for about 5 minutes. Your stew is ready to serve!

Simplified Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat olive oil.
2. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
4. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
5. Return beef to the pot, add potatoes and carrots, then close the lid and set to Pressure Cook on high for 35 minutes.
6. Once cooked, quick release the pressure.
7. Mix flour and water in a small bowl; stir into the stew to thicken.
8. Add peas and set to Sauté mode for 5 minutes until peas are heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh, crisp salad can add a nice contrast to the richness of the stew. For a wine pairing, consider a full-bodied red like a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use beef brisket or short ribs, but the cooking time may vary slightly.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for thickening.

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