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Hearty Beef Stew in Bread Bowls

A comforting beef stew served in crispy bread bowls, combining tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Beef Stew, bread bowls, comfort food, Family Recipe, One-Pot Meal
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes Juicy pieces that soak in all the broth's goodness.
  • 4 cups beef broth The flavorful base that ties everything together.
  • 14 oz canned diced tomatoes Juicy and tangy, they add a contrasting flavor.
  • 3 carrots sliced Sweet and tender, these veggies brighten the stew.
  • 3 potatoes diced Hearty chunks that contribute to a filling meal.
  • 2 celery stalks chopped Adds crunch and a subtle earthy flavor.
  • 1 onion chopped Sweet and sautéed to form the base of the dish.
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil For browning the beef to perfection.
  • 2 garlic cloves minced A must for adding depth and aroma.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme Provides a warm, herbal essence.
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary A fragrant herb that enhances the overall aroma.
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce A dash of umami that enhances the beef.
  • 1 tsp salt Essential for seasoning the stew.
  • 1 tsp pepper Essential for seasoning the stew.
  • 1 cup frozen peas Add pops of color and sweetness to the stew.
  • 4 round bread loaves for serving The edible bowls! Crisp and inviting.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Helps to thicken the sauce for a rich texture.
  • 2 tbsp butter Optional, for brushing the bread.

Instructions

Coat the Beef

  • Toss the beef cubes in a bowl with the flour, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Brown the Meat

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add coated beef cubes and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

  • In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-5 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Add Everything In

  • Return browned beef to the pot, and add sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped celery, canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir well.

Simmer Low & Slow

  • Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Allow to simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours.

Add Peas

  • During the final 10 minutes of cooking, stir in frozen peas. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Prep Bread Bowls

  • Slice off the tops of each bread loaf and hollow them out. Optionally brush insides with butter and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Serve It Up

  • Ladle stew into bread bowls and serve warm. Optionally sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, marinate beef overnight in broth and herbs. Remove bay leaf before serving. If no bread bowls, serve with crusty bread or over rice.