Hearty Beef and Root Vegetable Stew

A classic winter warmer that’s perfect for cozy evenings. Packed with tender beef, seasonal root vegetables, and rich gravy, this stew pairs perfectly with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

(Serves 4 – 6)

• 1 kg diced beef stewing steak

• 2 tbsp plain flour

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped

• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 small swede, peeled and diced

• 2 tbsp tomato purée

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 750ml beef stock

• 150ml red wine (optional, substitute with extra stock if preferred)

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

Prepare the Beef:
Toss the beef in the flour, ensuring each piece is well coated. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed casserole dish or pot over medium heat. Brown the beef in batches, removing and setting aside as you go.

Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, cooking for 2 – 3 minutes until softened. Add the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and swede, stirring to combine.

Build the Flavour:
Stir in the tomato purée and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 – 2 minutes, then pour in the beef stock and red wine (if using). Return the beef to the pot and add the bay leaves and thyme. Season with salt and black pepper.

Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 2 – 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavours are well combined.

Serve:
Remove the bay leaves and ladle the stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips

• For extra richness, stir in a knob of butter or a splash of cream at the end of cooking.

• Add dumplings in the final 30 minutes of cooking for a classic British touch.

• This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead!

Enjoy this comforting, hearty meal as the perfect remedy to a cold winter’s night.