This Tuscan Beef Stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, colorful veggies, and rich flavors. Perfect for cozy nights, it warms you from the inside out!
I love how easy it is to throw everything in one pot and let it bubble away. The smell alone will make everyone gather around the kitchen! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stews as it becomes tender during slow cooking. If you want a leaner option, consider using sirloin or round, but be aware they may not be as tender.
Red Wine: A dry red wine enhances the flavor of the stew. If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with beef broth or grape juice, but it won’t have quite the same depth.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes bring acidity and moisture. You can use fresh tomatoes or even tomato sauce if needed, just adjust the liquid quantity accordingly.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme add wonderful flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs can work in a pinch, but use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Brown the Beef Properly?
Browning the beef is crucial for developing rich flavors in the stew. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the beef is dry by patting it with paper towels. This helps it brown better.
- Heat your oil over medium-high heat, and add the beef in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pot.
- Let it cook without moving for about 4-5 minutes until it forms a nice crust, then turn to brown other sides.
By taking your time, you’ll layer flavors that make the stew truly delicious! Remember, you can work in batches if your pot is small.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Stew?
If your stew isn’t thickening as you’d like, here are some easy tips:
- Let it simmer uncovered for a while. This allows the liquid to reduce, thickening the stew naturally.
- Add a little cornstarch mixed with water (1 tablespoon cornstarch per 1 tablespoon of cold water) and stir it in. Let it cook for a few minutes to thicken.
- For a richer flavor, you can mash some of the beans or potatoes at the bottom of the pot and stir them in.
These methods ensure your stew has the perfect consistency while retaining great flavor!
Tuscan Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped (plus a sprig for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tuscan Beef Stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 2 to 2.5 hours of cooking. The simmering process allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making the wait well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Beef:
Start by generously seasoning the beef cubes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of your stew from the very beginning.
2. Browning the Beef:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in small batches, add the beef and brown it on all sides until it’s nicely caramelized. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate. This step adds a depth of flavor to your stew!
3. Sautéing the Veggies:
Using the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
4. Adding Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma. This adds a lovely flavor depth to the stew!
5. Incorporating Tomato Paste:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for about 2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This will deepen the overall flavor of the stew.
6. Deglazing with Wine:
Pour in the dry red wine, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This imparts even more flavor! Let the wine simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it reduces by half.
7. Combining All Ingredients:
Now, add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, chopped rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Return the browned beef along with any juices that collected on the plate to the pot.
8. Simmering the Stew:
Bring the stew to a light simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let it cook gently for about 2 to 2.5 hours. Stir occasionally and feel free to add a little beef broth if it becomes too thick.
9. Final Touches:
Once the beef is fork-tender and the sauce has thickened, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving!
10. Serving It Up:
Serve your hearty Tuscan Beef Stew hot over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprig of rosemary, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget some crusty bread on the side to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your comforting Tuscan Beef Stew, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or chuck roast, but beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its ability to become tender during slow cooking. If you use a leaner cut, be prepared for the stew to be less rich and tender.
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender. This method is great for a hands-off approach!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Tuscan Beef Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with creamy polenta or mashed potatoes, which soak up the flavorful sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of steamed vegetables or with a side salad and crusty bread!