Hearty Beef Stew: A Comforting Culinary Journey

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a spacious pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Toss the stew beef with flour in a bowl until evenly coated.
3. Add the beef to the pot and cook until it turns a rich brown on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and add the bay leaves and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 1-1/2 to 2 hours or until the beef reaches a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
7. Introduce the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, continuing to cook for another 30-45 minutes until the vegetables achieve a delightful tenderness.
8. Remove the bay leaves and season the stew with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
9. Serve this savory dish hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of this Beef Stew, a culinary masterpiece that promises both satisfaction and comfort. 🍲✨