Best Ever Beef Stew

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then toss them with the flour until they are well-coated. This helps to thicken the stew as it cooks.
2. Brown the Beef:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot, and brown on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and slightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half.

1. Add the Beef and Broth:
   • Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
2. Add the Carrots and Potatoes:
   • After the beef has simmered and is tender, add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Finish with Peas and Corn:
   • Add the frozen peas and corn in the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing them to warm through.
4. Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew:

• Browning the Beef: Taking the time to brown the beef properly adds a deep flavor to the stew.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the stew to simmer slowly tenderizes the beef and melds the flavors together beautifully.
• Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the stew. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
• Wine Selection: If using wine, choose a dry red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that complements the rich flavors of the stew.

Enjoy this best ever beef stew with some crusty bread for a complete, soul-warming meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.