Hearty Beef Stew & Fluffy Dumplings Recipe – A Comfort Food Classic

When the chill of winter sets in, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of hearty beef stew. This classic dish has been a staple in family kitchens for generations, cherished for its rich flavors and satisfying warmth. The allure of beef stew lies not only in its robust taste but also in its ability to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. Whether enjoyed on a cold evening or served at a gathered feast, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food.

Hearty Beef Stew & Fluffy Dumplings Recipe – A Comfort Food Classic

Warm up this winter with a comforting bowl of hearty beef stew paired with fluffy dumplings! This classic dish combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a rich flavor profile that's perfect for family gatherings. The light dumplings soak up the savory broth, enhancing every delicious bite. Discover the secrets to perfecting this beloved recipe and enjoy the nourishing comfort it brings. #BeefStew #ComfortFood #HomeCooking #Dumplings #RecipeIdeas #CookingWithLove #WinterMeals

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Ingredients

For the Beef Stew:

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 carrots, sliced

3 potatoes, diced

2 cups beef broth

1 cup red wine (optional, replace with additional broth if desired)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Fluffy Dumplings:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup whole milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 egg, beaten

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Brown the Beef:

- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.

- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper and brown them in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables:

- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).

- Add carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients:

- Return the browned beef to the pot.

- Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Mix well to incorporate.

- Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.

- Add beef broth to the pot, ensuring the ingredients are covered. Bring to a boil.

Simmer Stew:

- Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.

- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Prepare Dumplings:

- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.

- In another bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and the beaten egg. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; it should be slightly lumpy. Fold in fresh parsley if using.

Cook Dumplings:

- After the stew has simmered and the beef is tender, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the top of the stew.

- Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing dumplings to steam and puff up.

Serve:

- Once the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, serve the hearty beef stew in bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 2.5 hrs | Servings: 6

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Hearty Beef Stew & Fluffy Dumplings!