Classic French Beef Stew with Mushrooms

There’s nothing like the comfort of a rich, hearty beef stew, especially on those cooler days. This Classic French Beef Stew with Mushrooms is the perfect dish to warm you from the inside out. I can’t wait to share this one with you because the depth of flavor is incredible, and the smell when it’s simmering on the stove? Oh, it’s divine!

Imagine tender beef chunks, earthy mushrooms, and sweet carrots, all slowly cooked together to create a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth experience. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy tools or complicated techniques—just a big pot and a little bit of patience.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile and comforting: Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just craving something hearty, this stew delivers every time.

Aromatic flavors: The thyme, garlic, and bay leaf create a beautiful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it almost impossible to wait until it’s ready.

Hearty and filling: The combination of tender beef, potatoes, and carrots makes this a complete meal that will keep everyone satisfied.

Simple yet gourmet: You don’t need to be a professional chef to create this French-inspired dish, but it’ll taste like you spent hours perfecting it.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife for chopping
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Ladle for serving

How to Make Classic French Beef Stew with Mushrooms

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, brown the beef chunks in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot! After each batch is browned, set the beef aside. This browning step builds the rich flavor base for the stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

Next, add the sliced mushrooms, carrots, and cubed potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, letting the vegetables soak up all the delicious flavors left from the beef.

Step 4: Build the Broth

Stir in 2 tbsp of tomato paste to give the stew a nice depth of flavor. Then, pour in the 2 cups of beef broth, 1 cup of water, bay leaf, and thyme. Give everything a good stir.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

Before serving, season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.

What to Serve with Beef Stew

Crusty bread is a must to soak up that savory, rich broth! You could also pair it with a light green salad to balance the hearty stew, or serve it over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for an extra comforting meal.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time to brown the beef properly. It creates those deep flavors that make a huge difference in the final dish.
• Simmer low and slow: This stew is all about patience! The longer it simmers, the more tender the beef becomes.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to toss in parsnips, turnips, or even sweet potatoes for a different twist.
• Leftovers: Stew often tastes even better the next day, so make sure to save some for later!

Storage Instructions

This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready for round two. It also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it’ll last for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, chuck roast or short ribs work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to trim any excess fat.

How can I make this stew gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and tomato paste are certified gluten-free!

Conclusion

I hope this Classic French Beef Stew with Mushrooms becomes a staple in your home just as it has in mine. It’s the ultimate comfort food that never fails to impress, whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

Have you tried it yet? I’d love to see how it turned out! Share your photos on Pinterest or drop a review below. And if you’re hungry for more comforting dishes, be sure to check out some of my other favorites like Ribeye Steak with French Onions and Mushrooms, Sizzling Surf & Turf Skewers with Fresh Chimichurri, and Pot Roast Over Mashed Potatoes.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbs: 20g
• Fiber: 4g

Happy cooking!

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