Mississippi Beef Stew is a hearty dish loaded with tender beef and tasty veggies, simmered to perfection. It’s a warm hug in a bowl that will make your whole family smile!
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Just toss everything into a pot and let it cook while you kick back. I could eat this every day—it’s that comforting! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Use chuck roast or any cut suitable for slow-cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin can work but may need less cooking time.
Red Wine: This adds depth to the flavor. If you prefer to skip it, just use an extra cup of beef broth. You can also use apple cider vinegar or grape juice for a different note.
Vegetables: Feel free to swap the green bell pepper with a red or yellow one for sweetness. You can also add other veggies, like peas or mushrooms, based on your family’s favorites!
Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, use them instead of dried. Fresh herbs deliver a vibrant flavor—just double the quantity since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Tender?
One challenge in making beef stew is getting that meat to be really tender. Here’s how to nail it:
- Be sure to brown the beef before adding liquids; this enhances flavor.
- Keep the stew at a low simmer once it boils, as high heat can toughen the meat.
- Let it cook for a good 1.5 to 2 hours; patience is key! The longer the stew simmers, the more tender and flavorful the beef will become.
Check the stew occasionally and adjust the seasoning towards the end—this helps amplify the flavors and ensures you’re not missing anything!
Mississippi Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (cubed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or whole if small
- 4 large carrots, chopped into chunks
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mississippi Beef Stew requires approximately 15 minutes for prep and about 1.5 to 2 hours for cooking. So, overall, set aside roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy a comforting meal packed with flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef in batches, making sure to brown all sides to lock in flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté them until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. After that, toss in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth along with the red wine (if you’re using it), and the can of diced tomatoes (make sure to include the juice!). Stir everything together, mixing well.
4. Add Vegetables and Seasoning:
Now, add the baby potatoes, chopped carrots, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor.
5. Simmer the Stew:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the veggies are cooked through. You want that perfect slow-cooked goodness!
6. Final Adjustments:
Once the stew is ready, remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—more salt or pepper may enhance the flavors even further.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Serve hot, and don’t forget the crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious broth!
This classic Mississippi Beef Stew is a comforting dish, showcasing hearty beef chunks and flavorful vegetables that make for a perfect meal any time.
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Stew?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, pat it dry before browning to ensure a good sear!
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, follow the same steps for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the stew thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or even mushrooms to enhance the stew. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking, and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking if using a slow cooker or stovetop method.
