"Ultimate Comfort: Hearty Stew Beef Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights"

#### Stew Beef Soup RecipeWhen the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of stew beef soup to bring comfort an……

#### Stew Beef Soup Recipe

When the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of stew beef soup to bring comfort and satisfaction. This hearty stew beef soup recipe is designed to fill your home with enticing aromas and provide a nourishing meal for family and friends. With tender chunks of beef, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a comforting dish.

#### Ingredients

To create the ultimate stew beef soup, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

- 1 large onion, diced

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 4 carrots, sliced

- 3 stalks of celery, chopped

- 4 medium potatoes, diced

- 6 cups of beef broth

- 1 cup of red wine (optional)

- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce

- 2 teaspoons of dried thyme

- 2 bay leaves

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley for garnish

- Olive oil for browning the beef

#### Instructions

1. **Brown the Beef**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In batches, brown the beef on all sides, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step is crucial for developing flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

2. **Sauté Vegetables**: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, add the carrots, celery, and potatoes, stirring to combine.

3. **Build the Flavor**: Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. If using, pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will add depth to your soup.

4. **Add Broth and Simmer**: Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper as needed.

5. **Final Touches**: Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaves. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot to release their starch.

6. **Serve**: Ladle the stew beef soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.

#### Why This Recipe Works

This stew beef soup recipe is not just about the ingredients; it's about the process and the love that goes into making it. The slow simmering allows the flavors to develop, and the beef becomes incredibly tender. The combination of vegetables adds both nutrition and texture, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

Additionally, the option to incorporate red wine enhances the richness of the broth, while the herbs and spices create a fragrant backdrop that will make your kitchen feel like a cozy haven.

#### Conclusion

This stew beef soup recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering, a cozy night in, or simply a way to warm up after a long day. It's a dish that invites conversation and comfort, making it a staple in many households. So gather your ingredients, embrace the cooking process, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious stew beef soup that will surely become a favorite in your home.