Description
This Apple Cider Stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for fall. Tender beef, soft potatoes, and carrots simmer in a cider-infused broth with aromatic herbs, creating a cozy and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds (900g) stew beef, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (720ml) apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
- 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- Optional: 1 tablespoon tomato paste or Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Pat the beef dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer browned beef to a plate.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour over onions and stir for 1 minute.
- Deglaze with Cider: Slowly pour in the apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the Beef Back: Return browned beef to the pot. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1 hour.
- Add the Vegetables: Add carrots and potatoes. Continue simmering for another 45 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and beef is soft.
- Final Seasoning: Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional cider. Stir in butter if desired.
- Serve: Ladle the apple cider stew into bowls and serve warm.
Notes
- Use real apple cider for the best flavor.
- Browning the beef in batches is crucial for flavor development.
- Simmering on low and slow ensures tender beef and a rich broth.
- For a thicker stew, mash some potatoes into the broth or add a cornstarch slurry.
- This apple cider stew tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Soups and Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl