Craving a warm, hearty meal that’s perfectly portioned just for you? Look no further than this delightful Beef Stew for One! This comforting classic combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth that will wrap you in a cozy embrace with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or need a quick and satisfying dish after a long day, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Ready to discover how to whip up this mouthwatering stew in just under an hour? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 serving
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound beef stew meat, cubed
- 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/4 onion, chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
- Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a small pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and brown the beef cubes on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. This will help develop rich flavor and create a nice caramelized exterior.
- Remove the browned beef and set aside. In the same pan, add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pan and add tomato paste. Stir to coat the meat and cook for an additional minute to enhance the tomato flavor.
- Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and vegetables are soft.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in a bowl, enjoying the rich, comforting flavors of your single-serving beef stew.
Tips
- Brown the Meat Well: Take the time to properly brown the beef stew meat. This step is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors that will elevate your stew.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! A good amount of salt and pepper during the cooking process enhances the overall taste of your stew.
- Let it Simmer: Allow the stew to simmer gently for the full 35-40 minutes. This slow cooking time ensures that the meat becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the stew rest for about 5 minutes after cooking allows the flavors to settle, making each spoonful even more delicious.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Peas, green beans, or even mushrooms can add a personal touch to your stew.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your beef stew with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth—it's the perfect comfort food combination!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 100mg
