Meat stew is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that warms not just the stomach but the heart. Its rich, savory aroma wafts through the kitchen, beckoning family and friends to gather around the table.

There’s something magical about the way tender chunks of meat meld with vegetables in a thick, flavorful broth. Each spoonful tells a story of home-cooked love, patience, and the joy of shared meals. This hearty dish is versatile enough to adapt to seasonal ingredients, yet it remains rooted in tradition. Let’s dive into crafting this beloved classic.

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 2 pounds meat chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 carrots, sliced

• 3 stalks celery, chopped

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 2 cups meat broth

• 1 cup red drinks

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 bay leaves

Instructions

1.Sear the Meat: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the meat cubes with salt and pepper. In batches, add the meat to the pot, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat and set it aside.

2.Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3.Build the Flavor: Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Then, mix in the tomato paste, ensuring the vegetables are well-coated. Pour in the red drinks, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and lift any browned bits.

4.Combine and Simmer: Return the seared meat to the pot, along with the meat broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.

5.Final Touches: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread for a delightful meal that encapsulates the warmth of home. Enjoy the love and tradition that each bite of meat stew brings!

Lykkers, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this classic meat stew recipe! What twists do you like to add, or do you have your own family secrets for the perfect stew? Share your experiences and any tips in the comments below. Let's keep the conversation going and inspire each other in the kitchen!