Beef Stew and Dumplings: A Hearty Recipe for Cozy Nights

Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this classic Beef Stew and Dumplings recipe! This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. It's surprisingly easy to make, and the result is a rich, satisfying stew brimming with tender beef and fluffy dumplings.

Ingredients: For the Beef Stew

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Ingredients: For the Dumplings

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions: Making the Beef Stew

1. Sear the beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

3. Combine ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is very tender.

4. Add potatoes: After 1.5 hours, add the potatoes to the stew and continue to simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas (if using) during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Instructions: Making the Dumplings

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. Add wet ingredients: Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

3. Drop dumplings into stew: Once the stew is finished, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the stew. Cover the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew and Dumplings

• Use a good quality beef stew meat: This will make a huge difference in the flavor and tenderness of your stew.
• Don't overcrowd the pot when searing the beef: This will ensure that the beef browns properly and doesn't steam.
• Simmer, don't boil: Boiling the stew will make the beef tough. Low and slow is the key to tender beef.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Before adding the dumplings, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs.
• Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables to your stew, such as mushrooms, turnips, or parsnips.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Beef Stew and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. A crusty bread roll is the perfect accompaniment. Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal!

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