Beef Mushroom Stew: Hearty, Flavorful, and Comforting
Hearty, rich, and deeply satisfying, Beef Mushroom Stew is a classic comfort food that warms the soul with every bite. This dish brings together tender chunks of beef, earthy mushrooms, aromatic vegetables, and a savory broth simmered to perfection. Ideal for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or a cozy weekend dinner, beef mushroom stew combines depth of flavor with wholesome ingredients to create a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity and versatility. Slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender, absorbing the savory notes of garlic, onions, herbs, and stock. Mushrooms add an earthy, meaty depth that complements the beef while enhancing the stew’s umami flavor. Carrots, celery, and potatoes not only add color and texture but also provide a natural sweetness that balances the richness of the beef and mushrooms. Beyond taste, this stew is a powerhouse of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it both hearty and wholesome.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a table of ingredients for Beef Mushroom Stew, along with approximate calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Beef chuck (cubed) | 500 g | 1,100 kcal |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | 250 g | 55 kcal |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 kcal |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 medium | 50 kcal |
| Celery stalks (sliced) | 2 | 20 kcal |
| Potatoes (cubed) | 2 medium | 260 kcal |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 3 | 15 kcal |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 kcal |
| Beef broth | 4 cups | 60 kcal |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | 30 kcal |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp | 15 kcal |
| Thyme (dried) | 1 tsp | 2 kcal |
| Bay leaf | 1 | 2 kcal |
| Salt | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Black pepper | To taste | 5 kcal |
| Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) | Optional | 5 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients
Cube beef, chop onions, slice mushrooms, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Mince garlic. - Brown the beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown beef cubes on all sides. Remove and set aside. - Sauté aromatics
In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. - Cook vegetables and mushrooms
Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5–7 minutes to bring out flavors. - Add liquids and seasoning
Return beef to the pot. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix well. - Simmer the stew
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer gently for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and flavors meld together. - Finish and serve
Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add extra vegetables: Peas, parsnips, or turnips can be included for added nutrition and flavor.
- Thicker stew: Mix 1–2 tbsp flour or cornstarch with water and stir in at the end to thicken the broth.
- Wine variation: Add ½ cup red wine while simmering for deeper flavor.
- Slow cooker option: Brown beef and sauté vegetables first, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- Herb variations: Rosemary, sage, or oregano can be added alongside thyme for extra aroma.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | Moderate (varies by broth and seasoning) |
This stew is protein-rich, filling, and provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fat, and fiber.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or steamed rice for a hearty meal.
- Accompany with a fresh green salad to balance richness.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Beef Mushroom Stew: Hearty, Flavorful, and Comforting
4
servings15
minutes1
hour30
minutes420
kcalIngredients
500 g beef chuck, cubed
250 g mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 medium potatoes, cubed
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- Prepare ingredients: Cube beef, chop vegetables, slice mushrooms, and mince garlic.
- Brown beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown beef cubes on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, cook onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant.
- Cook vegetables and mushrooms: Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5–7 minutes.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Return beef to the pot. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer stew: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender.
- Finish and serve: Remove bay leaf, taste, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Beef choice: Use chuck roast, stew beef, or brisket for tender, flavorful meat. Avoid lean cuts that may become dry.
Thickening the stew: Mix 1–2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir into the stew near the end for a thicker consistency.
FAQs
1. What is Beef Mushroom Stew?
Beef Mushroom Stew is a hearty, comforting dish made with tender chunks of beef, earthy mushrooms, aromatic vegetables, and a savory broth, simmered to perfection for rich flavor.
2. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast, brisket, or stew beef cubes work best because they become tender when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts that may dry out.
3. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef and sauté vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours for tender, flavorful beef.
4. How can I thicken the stew?
Mix 1–2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir into the stew near the end of cooking. Simmer for a few more minutes until thickened.
5. Can I add wine to the stew?
Yes, adding ½ cup of red wine while simmering enhances the depth of flavor and complements the beef and mushrooms beautifully.
Conclusion
Beef Mushroom Stew is a classic, comforting dish that combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic vegetables in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, it offers depth of flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this stew brings warmth and homestyle comfort to any table, making it a must-have recipe for anyone seeking hearty and delicious meals.
