Craving a comforting and flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this simple beef stew recipe, bursting with the warmth of Indian spices. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times; this recipe delivers a rich, tender beef stew in a fraction of the effort. Imagine succulent beef cubes melting in your mouth, surrounded by hearty vegetables and a fragrant, deeply satisfying sauce. This isn't your grandmother's stew – it's a vibrant, flavorful upgrade that will quickly become a family favorite.
This easy beef stew recipe balances familiar comfort with exciting new tastes. The blend of warming spices creates a depth of flavor that elevates this classic dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a meal that's both delicious and surprisingly simple to prepare. To begin creating this culinary masterpiece, let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Beef: 1/4 pound
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup
- Potatoes: 2
- Carrots: 2
- Frozen peas: 1 cup
- Cumin seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 2 cups
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Parsley flakes: 2 teaspoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Beef and Aromatics
- Trim the fat from the beef, wash it, and cut it into 2-inch pieces.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or any vegetable oil) in a pot over high heat. Add cumin seeds and cook for 20-30 seconds.
Step 2. Brown the Beef and Add Vegetables
- Add the beef to the pot and cook for 10 minutes on high heat, until the water is released.
- Add tomato sauce and mix well. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add carrots, potatoes, and frozen peas. Mix well.
Step 3. Simmer the Stew
- Add 2 cups of water, mix well, and reduce the heat to medium. Cover and cook for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, add another cup of hot water and mix well. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for another 30 minutes.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- After the final cooking time, stir in 2 teaspoons of dried parsley flakes.
Tips
- Use any vegetable oil instead of olive oil if preferred.
- Add hot water when adding more water for a better consistency.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 25g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of beef for this stew?
Yes! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can substitute with other beef cuts like stew meat or even sirloin, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Tougher cuts will need longer to become tender.
2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! This recipe adapts well to slow cookers and Instant Pots. For slow cookers, follow the same instructions but cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For Instant Pots, sauté the ingredients as directed, then pressure cook on high for 30 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
This easy Indian-spiced beef stew is a perfect weeknight meal, offering a delicious and satisfying culinary experience without the fuss. Enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of this simple yet impressive dish. So gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every bite of this flavorful stew!