Smoked Paprika Garlic Beef Stew

A hearty, robust stew featuring tender beef simmered with smoked paprika, garlic, and vegetables perfect for comforting meals on a budget.

This smoky and savory stew has become a favorite in my family for chilly evenings and casual dinners.

Ingredients

• Beef chuck: 800 g (1.75 lb) cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes
• Onions: 2 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Carrots: 2 large, peeled and sliced
• Celery: 2 stalks, sliced
• Potatoes: 3 medium, peeled and cut into chunks
• Red bell pepper: 1, chopped
• Canned diced tomatoes: 400 g (14 oz)
• Smoked paprika: 2 tbsp
• Ground cumin: 1 tsp
• Dried thyme: 1 tsp
• Bay leaf: 1
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
• Beef broth: 750 ml (3 cups)
• Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp

Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot over medium high heat Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides Remove and set aside

Step 2:

Lower heat to medium Add onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant

Step 3:

Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly

Step 4:

Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell pepper Mix well

Step 5:

Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, salt, and pepper

Step 6:

Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine Bring to a simmer

Step 7:

Cover and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is very tender and vegetables are cooked through

Step 8:

Discard bay leaf Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Serve hot

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Sharing this stew at the dinner table always brings our family together for warm conversations and laughter.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness

Required Tools

Large Dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot Sharp knife Cutting board Wooden spoon or spatula

Allergen Information

Contains None of the major allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans) Check store bought broth and tomato products for hidden allergens or gluten

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This stew is a delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal with loved ones any day of the week

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I achieve tender beef in this stew?

Brown the beef cubes before simmering low and slow for 1.5 to 2 hours. This gentle cooking breaks down connective tissues for tender results.

→ Can I substitute beef chuck with another cut?

Yes, brisket or stewing beef are excellent alternatives that will also become tender after slow cooking.

→ What vegetables complement the flavors best?

Carrots, celery, potatoes, and red bell pepper add sweetness, texture, and color to balance the smoky paprika and garlic.

→ How can I enhance the stew’s depth of flavor?

Adding a splash of red wine during simmering intensifies the richness and adds complexity to the dish.

→ What are good serving suggestions?

Serve hot with crusty bread or over cooked rice to soak up the flavorful broth. Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness.