Prepare to be transported to a world of warmth and comfort as we unveil the tantalizing recipe for Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl. This delightful dish combines tender, slow-cooked beef stew with the rustic charm of a crusty bread bowl, creating a culinary experience that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings, this recipe is a surefire winner. So, let’s dive in and discover how to create this comforting delight that will warm both body and soul.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
For the Stew:
– 2 pounds (900g) beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bread Bowls:
– 6 small round bread loaves (sourdough or any crusty bread)
– Butter for brushing
Directions:
1. In a large bowl, season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sprinkle flour over the beef and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until well seared on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
4. Return the seared beef to the pot with the vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir in the tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the stew to simmer gently for 2-3 hours, or until the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. While the stew is simmering, prepare the bread bowls. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Continued on next page (page 2)
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