*🍲 Comforting Beef Stew with Creamy Mashed Potatoes 🍖🥔

:—**Ingredients:*
*For the Beef Stew:*
– 1.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces- 2 tbsp olive oil- 1 onion, chopped- 2 garlic cloves, minced- 3 carrots, chopped- 2 large potatoes, chopped (save extra for mashed potatoes)- 2 cups beef broth- 1 cup red wine (optional for depth of flavor)- 2 tbsp tomato paste- 1 tsp dried thyme- 1 tsp dried rosemary- Salt and pepper, to taste- 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*For the Mashed Potatoes:*
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped- 2 tbsp butter- 1/4 cup milk or cream- Salt and pepper, to taste
—*Directions:*
*1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:*
– Begin by boiling the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.- Once soft, drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk/cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.*2.
Start the Beef Stew:*
– Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.- Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear the beef until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
– In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.*3. Build the Stew:*- Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1 minute.- Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and the seared beef back into the pot.- Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.*4. Thicken the Stew:*- In a small bowl, combine the flour with a bit of cold water to create a slurry.- Stir the slurry into the stew and continue simmering for another 5 minutes until the stew thickens.*5. Serve and Garnish:*- Serve the stew hot over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and color.
—*Total Time:* 2 hours 15 minutes *Servings:* 4-6 *Calories:* ~450 per serving—This comforting dish is perfect for cozy dinners, with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and velvety mashed potatoes, all simmered together for an unforgettable meal!#BeefStew #ComfortFood #HeartyMeals #HomemadeDinner #MashedPotatoes #CozyEating #WinterMeals #FamilyDinner