Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) beef stew meat or boneless lamb, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium parsnips, peeled and sliced (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup (150 g) butternut squash, diced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) frozen peas (optional, for garnish)
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups (960 ml) beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
- 1 cup (240 ml) red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp cornstarch or flour, mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening, optional)
Instructions:
- Sear the Meat:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the stew meat with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and butternut squash. Cook for 3-5 minutes to lightly caramelize.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the seared meat to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, broth, wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Stir well.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the flavors are melded.
- Thicken the Stew (Optional):
- If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in the cornstarch or flour slurry during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
- Add Final Touches:
- Stir in the frozen peas just before serving for a pop of color. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread, buttery biscuits, or over mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Make It Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Substitutions: Use chicken, turkey, or a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or lentils for a variation.
- Slow Cooker Option: Combine all ingredients (except the thickener and peas) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Add the peas and thickener in the last 30 minutes.
Enjoy your Winter Wonderland Stew—a cozy, flavorful bowl of warmth for the coldest of days! ❄️🍲