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Mary Berry Beef Stew

Mary Berry Beef Stew
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Mary Berry Beef Stew is a rich, hearty, and comforting classic dish featuring tender beef chunks slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew combines simple pantry staples with deep flavors and textures, making it ideal for family meals or casual gatherings. Adaptable and nourishing, it can be made traditionally or in a slow cooker and customized to your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Meat

  • 800g good-quality stewing beef, cut into chunks

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 onions, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced

Liquid and Sauce

  • 500ml beef stock or broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 125ml red wine (optional)

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Thickening Agent

  • 2 tbsp plain flour (or gluten-free alternative like cornstarch)
  • Water (to make a slurry)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Cut the beef into even chunks and pat them dry to help achieve a good sear. Season with salt and pepper, then brown all sides in a hot pan until golden. This step develops deep savory flavors.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, cook diced onions and minced garlic until they are translucent and fragrant. Add the diced carrots and celery and cook briefly to soften and build layers of texture.
  3. Build the Stew Base: Return the browned beef to the pot, stir in the tomato paste to add subtle tang, then pour in the red wine if using. Simmer briefly to deglaze the pan and lift the flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
  4. Add Stock and Herbs: Pour in the beef stock, add thyme and bay leaves, then bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let the stew simmer slowly for 2 to 3 hours until the beef is tender and flavors are well melded.
  5. Thicken and Finish: Mix the flour with a small amount of water to make a slurry. Gradually stir this into the stew to thicken to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

  • Brown the meat well to add depth to the stew’s flavor.
  • Simmer on low heat for tenderness and rich broth development.
  • Fresh herbs like thyme and bay leaves enhance aroma better than dried.
  • Always deglaze the pan with wine or stock to lift caramelized flavors.
  • Adjust thickness at the end; it is easier to thicken than thin stew.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef stew, Mary Berry, comfort food, slow cooker, hearty stew, British cuisine, gluten free option

Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/mary-berry-beef-stew/