Baked Potato

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Total Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
Intensity: Medium

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900g) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 cup red wine (optional, or more broth)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:
   • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
   • Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches. Sear until all sides are browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set the beef aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
   • Add the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Liquid and Beef:
   • Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, and paprika. Stir everything together.
5. Simmer the Stew:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef becomes tender.
6. Add Vegetables:
   • After 2 hours, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Cover and continue cooking for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the vegetables are tender.
7. Optional Thickening:
   • If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup water to form a slurry. Stir this into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking, and let it simmer until thickened.
8. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaves, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve hot, with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes if desired.

Note: This beef stew is rich, hearty, and full of flavor with tender chunks of beef and perfectly cooked vegetables. It’s great for a cozy family meal or any time you crave comfort food.