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Spanish Beef Stew

Spanish Beef Stew
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An authentic Spanish Beef Stew featuring tender slow-cooked beef chuck simmered with smoked paprika, red bell peppers, tomato paste, and aromatic herbs. This rich, hearty stew delivers deep, comforting flavors perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings year-round.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 3 tbsp quality Spanish olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 4 cups beef broth or stock

Optional Vegetables

  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Variations and Additional Options

  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, for deglazing and enhanced flavor)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Additional vegetables as desired: zucchini, mushrooms, green beans

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Brown the Beef: Cut beef chuck into bite-sized cubes. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides, creating a rich caramelized crust. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Add Spices: In the same pot, add onions, garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook gently until softened and fragrant. Stir in smoked paprika, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the vegetables.
  3. Deglaze and Build the Stew Base: Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes. If using, add dry red wine now. Scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen browned bits for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Combine and Simmer Slowly: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add carrots and potatoes if desired. Cover, reduce heat to low, and let simmer slowly for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and flavors melded.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Remove bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, sour cream, or Manchego cheese.

Notes

  • Use quality beef chuck for optimal tenderness and flavor.
  • Do not rush searing; the browned crust adds essential depth.
  • Simmer the stew low and slow to achieve meltingly tender beef and rich broth.
  • Adjust stew consistency by simmering uncovered to reduce or adding broth to thin.
  • Allow stew to rest a few minutes off heat before serving for flavors to settle.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spanish beef stew, slow cooked beef, Spanish cuisine, hearty stew, comfort food, gluten free stew

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/spanish-beef-stew/