Rustic French Beef Stew
Indulge in this hearty Rustic French Beef Stew, a beloved classic that brings the flavors of a quaint French countryside kitchen to your table. Tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection with vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and rich broth create a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this stew pairs beautifully with crusty French bread for a complete experience. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a meal shared with friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
8
Servings
350
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Stewing beef
1-2 lb (cut into 1-inch cubes)
Flour
1/4 cup (for coating)
Oil
2 tablespoons (for browning)
Stewed tomatoes
2 (14.5 ounce) cans (for base)
Beef broth
1 (14 ounce) can (for added flavor)
Carrots
4-5 medium (pared and cut into 1-inch chunks)
Potatoes
2-3 medium (pared and cut into 1-inch chunks)
Thyme
3/4 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Salt and pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
In a large plastic bag, combine the stewing beef with flour, tossing to coat the meat evenly.
2
In a 6-quart heavy-bottom pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef and brown it on all sides. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3
Once the beef is browned, pour in the stewed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
4
Add the carrots, potatoes, and thyme to the pot, mixing all ingredients thoroughly.
5
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, or until the beef becomes tender.
6
Finally, stir in the Dijon mustard for an added layer of flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
7
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, alongside warm, crusty French bread if desired.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
25g
Carbs
22.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rustic French Beef Stew?
Rustic French Beef Stew is a classic, hearty dish featuring tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered in a rich broth.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 8 servings, making it ideal for large families or gatherings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories.
What type of beef should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 to 2 pounds of stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes.
Why is the beef tossed in flour?
The flour helps to brown the meat more effectively and acts as a thickening agent for the stew broth.
What kind of pot is best for this recipe?
A 6-quart heavy-bottom pot is recommended to ensure even heat distribution.
How long does the stew need to simmer?
The stew should simmer covered for approximately 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
What is the purpose of Dijon mustard in this stew?
Dijon mustard adds an extra layer of depth and a unique tang to the flavor profile of the stew.
What vegetables are included in this stew?
The recipe includes 4-5 medium carrots and 2-3 medium potatoes, both cut into 1-inch chunks.
Is this recipe considered a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is a one-pot meal that simplifies both cooking and cleanup.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 22.5 grams of protein.
Can I make this stew gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for coating the beef.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 15 grams of fat per serving.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
Each serving contains 25 grams of carbohydrates.
How much beef broth is required?
The recipe uses one 14-ounce can of beef broth for added flavor.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The recipe specifically uses 3/4 teaspoon of thyme to season the stew.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
While canned stewed tomatoes provide a specific base, you can use fresh tomatoes, though you may need to adjust the liquid levels.
What should I serve with Rustic French Beef Stew?
It pairs beautifully with warm, crusty French bread to soak up the rich broth.
How should I brown the beef?
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat and cook the flour-coated beef until browned on all sides.
When should I add the carrots and potatoes?
Add the carrots and potatoes after you have stirred in the stewed tomatoes and beef broth.
How do I know when the stew is finished?
The stew is ready when the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft, typically after an hour of simmering.
Can I substitute the oil for butter?
Yes, you can use butter or a mix of butter and oil, but be careful not to burn the butter at medium-high heat.
Is the Dijon mustard mandatory?
The Dijon mustard is listed as optional for extra depth of flavor, so you can omit it if preferred.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can this stew be frozen?
Yes, beef stew freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How much thyme is needed?
The recipe calls for 3/4 teaspoon of thyme.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
The nutritional data indicates no significant sugar content beyond what is naturally in the vegetables.
Can I add other vegetables like celery or onions?
Absolutely, feel free to add onions or celery during the browning phase for additional flavor.
What is the suggested garnish for this dish?
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a Stew.