Beef stew reinvented: how rutabaga elevates every bite

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a hearty beef stew recipe with rutabaga. This classic dish combines tender beef, earthy root vegetables, and a rich gravy to create a cozy and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a winter warmer or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this beef stew with rutabaga is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large rutabaga, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 celery stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper and add them to the pot. Brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Stir in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer until reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the Liquids and Spices: Pour in the beef broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Return the Beef: Add the browned beef back to the pot.
6. Add the Rutabaga and Vegetables: Stir in the rutabaga, carrots, celery, and potatoes.
7. Simmer: Cover and simmer on low heat until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through, about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
8. Thicken the Gravy: If desired, remove the beef and vegetables from the pot and whisk in a slurry made from 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water. Bring to a boil and simmer until thickened, about 1 minute.
9. Serve: Return the beef and vegetables to the pot and serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use a dark beer instead of red wine.
• Add other root vegetables to your stew, such as parsnips or turnips.
• If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can use a large stockpot or slow cooker.
• If you’re using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Variations:

• Spicy Beef Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the pot for a little heat.
• Creamy Beef Stew: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking for a richer and creamier gravy.
• Mushroom Beef Stew: Sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic for an earthy flavor.

Health Benefits of Rutabaga:

Rutabaga is a nutritious root vegetable that adds a sweet and earthy flavor to this beef stew. It’s a good source of:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Potassium
• Fiber

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this hearty beef stew with rutabaga alongside:

• Crusty bread or cornbread
• Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
• A side salad or coleslaw

The Bottom Line:

This beef stew recipe with rutabaga is a timeless classic that will warm your body and soul. With its tender beef, earthy vegetables, and rich gravy, it’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a special gathering. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and savor the comforting flavors of this delicious stew.

What You Need to Learn

Q1: Can I use frozen beef in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen beef. Just thaw it completely before browning.
Q2: How can I make my beef stew thicker?
A: You can thicken the gravy by adding a cornstarch slurry or by simmering the stew for a longer period of time.
Q3: What can I do if my beef stew is too salty?
A: If your stew is too salty, you can add a few peeled potatoes to absorb some of the salt.