Hearty Beef Stew

Ingredients:

For the Beef:

• 2 pounds Heritage Homestead Farms grass-fed beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
• 4 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
• Add the beef to the pot and sear on all sides until browned. This step adds flavor to the stew. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

• In the same pot, add another 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.

3. Create the Stew Base:

• If using flour, sprinkle it over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir to combine.
• Gradually pour in the red wine (if using) and beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Return the browned beef to the pot.

4. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:

• Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and mushrooms (if using) to the pot.
• Stir in bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary.
• Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer and Cook:

• Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
• Cover and let it simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally.

6. Serve:

• Remove the bay leaves.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
• Ladle the hearty beef stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this Heritage Homestead Farms grass-fed beef stew. The flavors will warm your soul, and the tender beef will melt in your mouth. It's the perfect dish for a cozy, satisfying meal.