Ah, stews! Who doesn't love a good, hearty stew? They're the quintessential comfort food, perfect for warming up on a cold day or simply gathering the family around the table. Whether you're a newbie in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, these five must-try stew recipes will hit the spot every time!
Classic Beef Stew
Nothing says comfort like a classic beef stew. This recipe is great for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Steps
- Prep the beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
- Sear the beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides and then set aside.
- Cook the veggies: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in tomato paste, then add in beef broth and red wine. Return the beef to the pot.
- Simmer: Add potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1.5-2 hours until the beef is tender.
Chicken and Vegetable Stew
For those days when you want something a bit lighter but equally comforting, this chicken and vegetable stew is your best friend.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Steps
- Prep the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken and then set aside.
- Cook the veggies: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Combine ingredients: Add chicken broth, green beans, and potatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Vegan Lentil Stew
This vegan lentil stew is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it perfect for those who want a nutritious meal without the meat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Steps
- Prep the veggies: Chop all the veggies and set aside.
- Cook the veggies: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Add spices: Stir in cumin and paprika.
- Combine ingredients: Add lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Seafood Stew
This seafood stew is brimming with fresh ingredients, making it feel like a fancy night out right in your own home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb cod, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups seafood or fish broth
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Steps
- Prep the seafood: Season the shrimp and cod with salt and pepper.
- Cook the onions and garlic: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cook until softened.
- Combine ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, broth, white wine, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil.
- Add seafood: Reduce heat, add shrimp and cod. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the seafood is cooked through.
Spicy Sausage Stew
If you're in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, this spicy sausage stew will not disappoint.
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Steps
- Prep the sausage: Brown the sausage in a large pot and then set aside.
- Cook the veggies: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Add spices and sausage: Stir in smoked paprika, then add back the sausage.
- Combine ingredients: Add chicken broth, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until everything is well combined.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! Five fantastic stew recipes that cater to every taste and skill level. Whether you're a beef lover, a health-conscious vegan, or a spicy food aficionado, there's a stew here for you. Go ahead, give these recipes a try, and don't forget to share your favorites with family and friends. Happy cooking!