Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Belgian-Style Slow-Cooked Beef Stew. Discover the perfect recipe for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2.5 pounds (1.1 kg) beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 large onions (about 1.5 pounds/680g), thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 bottles (12 oz each) Belgian dark ale or abbey-style beer
- 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 pound (450g) baby carrots or carrots cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 pound (450g) small potatoes, halved
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Beef Pat the beef chunks completely dry with paper towels – this is essential for proper browning. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper, then toss the beef in this mixture until evenly coated. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Working in batches to avoid crowding, brown the meat on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
- Step 2: Develop the Flavor Base In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and reduce heat to medium-low. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, then cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. This patience creates the signature sweet foundation of authentic **Belgian-Style Slow-Cooked Beef Stew**. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Create the Broth Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes until it darkens slightly. Add the brown sugar and apple cider vinegar, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Pour in the Belgian beer and bring to a simmer, allowing it to reduce by about one-quarter, approximately 5 minutes. This concentrates the beer’s complex flavors.
- Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection Return the browned beef to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, thyme sprigs, and whole grain mustard. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and reduce heat to low, allowing the stew to cook for 2 hours, checking occasionally.
- Step 5: Add Vegetables and Finish After 2 hours, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot, stirring gently to incorporate them. Continue to cook, covered, for another 45-60 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the beef is meltingly soft. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For the authentic touch, garnish your **Belgian-Style Slow-Cooked Beef Stew** with fresh parsley just before serving.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg