5 Hearty Stew Recipes You Have to Try

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a hearty bowl of stew. Whether you're looking to warm up from the inside out or seeking a comforting meal for your family, these five stew recipes are bound to bring a smile to your face. Let's dive into some traditional and modern stew recipes that you can easily whip up in your kitchen.

Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon, the quintessential French stew, combines tender chunks of beef with onions, mushrooms, and red wine, creating a deeply rich and flavorful dish. Here’s how you can make it:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
• 1 bottle of red Burgundy wine
• 6-8 oz bacon
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz pearl onions
• 8 oz mushrooms
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ¹⁄₄ cup flour
• 2 tbsp butter
• Thyme and bay leaves for seasoning

Start by browning the beef, then cook bacon, adding the onions and garlic. Deglaze with wine, then add the rest of the ingredients except for mushrooms and pearl onions. Simmer for about 2.5-3 hours. Sauté pearl onions and mushrooms in butter, add to the stew for the last 30 minutes.

🔔 Note: For an extra touch, serve this Beef Bourguignon with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to sop up the delicious sauce.

Irish Beef and Guinness Stew

An Irish classic, this stew uses Guinness beer to impart a deep, malty flavor:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat
• 1 can of Guinness
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 large onion
• 3 carrots
• 2 parsnips
• 3 potatoes
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp flour
• Fresh thyme and rosemary

Brown the beef, sauté the onions, then add vegetables, Guinness, and broth. Stir in flour for thickening and cook low and slow until the meat is tender.

🔔 Note: If you prefer a thicker stew, feel free to add more flour or use a slurry made with cornstarch.

Vegan Root Vegetable Stew

For those following a vegan diet or looking for a meatless alternative, here’s a hearty and nutritious option:

• 1 turnip
• 1 parsnip
• 2 carrots
• 2 sweet potatoes
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

Sauté the garlic and onion, add chopped vegetables, then pour in the broth and seasonings. Let it simmer until all vegetables are soft.

🔔 Note: For added texture, you might consider adding some chickpeas or lentils for protein and heartiness.

Chorizo and Chicken Stew

This spicy, protein-packed stew brings a touch of Spanish flair to your dinner table:

• 1 lb chicken thighs
• 8 oz chorizo sausage
• 1 large onion
• 1 red pepper
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ¹⁄₂ tsp cumin

Brown the chorizo and chicken, then add the vegetables, spices, and tomatoes, followed by the broth. Cook gently until everything is well blended and the chicken is tender.

Curried Coconut Lentil Stew

Switch to a more exotic note with this spicy and fragrant stew:

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 can coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 1 large onion
• 2-3 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tbsp turmeric
• 1 carrot
• 1 zucchini

Sauté the onions, add spices, then lentils, and finally, the coconut milk and stock. Let it cook until lentils are creamy.

In conclusion, the magic of a good stew lies in its versatility, allowing you to experiment with flavors, textures, and ingredients. Each of these hearty stew recipes offers a unique taste journey, from the robust Beef Bourguignon to the exotic Curried Coconut Lentil Stew. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, these dishes provide warmth, comfort, and a showcase for culinary creativity.

Can I make these stews in a slow cooker?

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Yes, most of these stews can be adapted for slow cooker preparation. Simply follow the initial steps for browning meat and sautéing aromatics, then transfer everything to the slow cooker, adding liquids, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What are good accompaniments for stew?

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Stews go well with several sides. Consider mashed potatoes, rice, crusty bread, or even polenta. These sides help soak up the delicious stew broth.

How can I thicken my stew if it’s too watery?

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You can thicken stew by mashing some of the cooked potatoes into the stew or by making a slurry with flour or cornstarch mixed with a little water. Add this to the stew and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.

How long do stews keep in the refrigerator?

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Most stews can be refrigerated for 3-4 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze stews for later?

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Absolutely! Cool the stew to room temperature, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.