Stove Top Beef Stew Recipe Erin Lives Whole from www.erinliveswhole.com
Stew meat is a versatile and affordable cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a delicious slow-cooked stew, a hearty soup, or a flavorful stir-fry, stew meat can be the star of the show. It’s a great way to stretch a meal and make it go a little further.
Tips for Shopping for Stew Meat
When shopping for stew meat, look for cuts of meat that are labeled “stew meat” or “stewing beef.” These cuts typically come from the chuck, round, or shoulder of the cow. If you’re unable to find pre-packaged stew meat, you can also purchase a large piece of meat and cut it into cubes yourself. When purchasing stew meat, be sure to look for pieces that are uniform in size and shape. This will ensure that the meat cooks evenly.
Preparing Stew Meat
Before cooking your stew meat, it’s important to remove any excess fat or gristle. This can be done with a sharp knife, or you can ask your butcher to do it for you. Once the fat is removed, the stew meat should be cut into cubes that are approximately one inch in size.
Browning the Meat
Once your stew meat is prepared, it’s important to brown it before adding it to the stew. To do this, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Once the oil is hot, add the cubes of stew meat and cook, stirring often, until the meat is nicely browned on all sides. This process should take about 8-10 minutes.
Adding Seasonings
Once the stew meat is browned, it’s time to add the seasonings. A traditional stew will use salt, pepper, garlic, onion, and herbs such as thyme, oregano, or bay leaves. You can also add other spices to customize the flavor of your stew. Be sure to stir the seasonings into the stew meat before adding the liquid.
Adding Liquid
Once the seasonings are added, it’s time to add the liquid. This can be anything from beef or chicken broth to beer or red wine. The liquid should be added to the stew meat and brought to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow the stew to simmer for at least an hour, or until the meat is tender.
Adding Vegetables
Once the meat is tender, it’s time to add the vegetables. This can be anything from potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and peas. The vegetables should be added to the stew and simmered until they are just tender.
Thickening the Stew
Once the vegetables are added, you may want to thicken the stew. This can be done by stirring in a little cornstarch or flour. Simply mix together equal parts cornstarch and cold water until you have a paste. Add this paste to the stew and stir until it thickens.
Serving Your Stew
Once your stew is finished, it’s time to serve. Stews are best served hot, with a side of crusty bread or a green salad. They can also be served over rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
Stew meat is an affordable and versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. With a few simple tips, you can create a delicious stew that is sure to please. So why not give it a try? You never know — you just might find your new favorite dish.
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