This hearty Mississippi Beef Stew is packed with tender beef and colorful veggies. With a touch of spices and a hint of sweetness, it’s warming and comforting any day!
You’ll love how easy it is to throw everything in a pot and let it simmer. Plus, the smell alone will have everyone gathered at the dinner table! Who needs fancy meals with this gem? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: Chuck is great for stewing because it gets tender while cooking. If you can’t find chuck, brisket or round are good alternatives but may not be as rich in flavor.
Vegetable Oil: This is used for browning the beef. You can use olive oil or canola oil if preferred. I’ve found that olive oil adds a nice flavor!
Beef Broth: A must for depth of flavor! If you’re aiming for a lighter stew, chicken broth works well too. You can also use homemade broth for an added touch.
Vegetables: Onion, potatoes, carrots, and celery are the stars here. Feel free to swap or add other veggies like parsnips or green beans for variety.
Tomato Paste: This helps build a robust sauce. If you’re out, you could use crushed tomatoes or reduce the liquid slightly with a splash of soy sauce for some umami.
How Do I Achieve Tender, Flavorful Beef?
Cooking the beef properly is crucial for melting tenderness. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Pat the beef cubes dry to help them brown better – moisture can hinder browning.
- Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. This ensures a great sear and deeper flavor.
- Add the beef back to the pot before simmering with liquid. It’s during this slow cooking that tough cuts become tender.
Patience is key! Let it simmer low and slow for the best results. Enjoy your hearty beef stew! 🥘
Mississippi Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Flavor Boosters:
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 2 hours to cook. So, set aside a bit of time to let those flavors meld as you enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Up and Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. While that’s warming up, pat the beef cubes dry with a paper towel to help them brown nicely. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, work in batches to brown the beef cubes on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften and the kitchen fills with that delicious smell!
3. Add the Tomato Paste:
Next, stir in the tomato paste, cooking it for 1-2 minutes. This will deepen its flavor and coat the veggies nicely!
4. Combine Ingredients for Stew:
Now, return the browned beef to the pot. Add in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried thyme, and the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Let It Simmer:
Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. This will make the beef tender and create a rich flavor!
6. Add the Veggies:
After 1.5 hours, add in the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are nice and tender.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf, and it’s time to serve!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty stew into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy it hot with some crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes on the side!
There you have it—the comforting, rich flavors of this classic Mississippi Beef Stew are sure to warm your heart. Enjoy your meal! 🥘
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its tenderness after slow cooking, you can substitute it with brisket or round. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut.
How Do I Store Leftover Stew?
Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
Can I Freeze This Stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It should stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How Can I Make This Stew Spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic. Adjust to your personal heat preference for the perfect warm flavor!
