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Stovetop Beef Stew For Two

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Stovetop Beef Stew for Two is a cozy, small-batch version of the classic comfort food, featuring tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory, slow-simmered broth. Perfectly portioned for two people, it’s ideal for intimate dinners or when you want just the right amount of leftovers.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 lb stew beef (chuck roast), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 small Yukon gold or red potatoes, diced
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme or 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup red wine or 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Pat beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Dust lightly with flour.
  2. Heat oil in a medium saucepan or small Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef on all sides in batches. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Pour in beef broth and optional red wine or balsamic. Scrape bottom to release browned bits. Return beef to the pot.
  5. Add carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender and vegetables are soft.
  7. Discard bay leaf and thyme sprig. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  8. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • For thicker stew, simmer uncovered during the last 20 minutes or mash some potatoes into the broth.
  • Chuck roast is the best cut for tender, flavorful beef.
  • Use gluten-free flour or skip the dusting to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Add peas or green beans near the end of cooking for extra veggies.
  • Flavor deepens overnight—leftovers are even better!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/stovetop-beef-stew-for-two/