Why Make This Recipe

Autumn Harvest Beef Stew is the perfect dish for those cozy fall days. It’s hearty, warming, and full of rich flavors that remind us of the harvest season. This stew features tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it a fulfilling meal for family and friends. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use seasonal produce, creating a delicious dish that nourishes both the body and soul.

How to Make Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 cups carrots, sliced
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup parsnips, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Making Autumn Harvest Beef Stew is straightforward if you follow these steps:

Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Add Flavor: Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute, allowing it to caramelize slightly and enhance its flavor. Pour in a splash of beef broth to scrape the bottom of the pot and release any browned bits. This adds flavor to the stew.
Combine Ingredients: Add the browned beef back into the pot along with the remaining beef broth. Incorporate carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and celery into the mixture.
Season the Stew: Add dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let the stew simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, removing the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color.

How to Serve Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

This stew is delicious on its own or served with warm crusty bread or over a bed of rice. Adding a simple side salad can also complement this hearty dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for added flavor and a beautiful presentation!

How to Store Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

If you have leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 3–4 days. You can also freeze the stew for longer storage; it will maintain its flavor and texture for about 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

Brown the Beef: Take your time when browning the beef. This step builds rich flavors in your stew.
Vegetable Choices: Feel free to mix and match with your favorite root vegetables. Sweet potatoes or turnips can make great substitutions.
Simmering Time: Allow the stew to simmer longer for even more tender beef. If you have time, cooking it low and slow enhances the taste.

Variation

For a different twist, you can add a splash of red wine while cooking the stew. This will deepen the flavor. You can also try adding a handful of leafy greens, like kale or spinach, towards the end of cooking for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes! You can use brisket or stew meat. Just be aware that cooking times may vary based on the cut.
Is it OK to leave out certain vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to exclude or substitute any vegetables based on your preference.
How do I know when the beef is tender?
The beef is tender when it easily breaks apart with a fork. If it’s still chewy, give it more time to simmer.

Autumn Harvest Beef Stew