As the magic of Christmas Eve sets in, there's nothing more comforting than gathering around the table for a steaming bowl of beef stew. This rich, flavorful dish is perfect for warming up the chilly evening and bringing loved ones together. Here’s how to prepare a delicious Christmas Eve Beef Stew that’s sure to delight your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup (240ml) red wine (optional, substitute with beef broth)
- 4 cups (960ml) beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
- Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
3. Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the red wine (or beef broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Build the Stew
- Return the beef to the pot and stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Add the beef broth, ensuring the meat and vegetables are fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and continue simmering for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes and beef are tender.
6. Thicken the Stew
- In a small pan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir the roux into the stew and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a festive touch. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for an extra cozy meal.
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Eve Beef Stew
- Use Quality Beef: Opt for well-marbled chuck roast or stewing beef for the best flavor and texture.
- Let It Simmer: Slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the stew a day in advance—stews taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Add a Personal Touch: Incorporate festive flavors like a dash of cinnamon or cloves for a holiday twist.
Conclusion
This Christmas Eve Beef Stew is the perfect combination of hearty ingredients and rich, savory flavors. It’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to your holiday celebration. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the cozy moments of Christmas Eve with your loved ones.
