Description
French Onion Beef Stew
A comforting, rich beef stew served with cheesy toasted bread for the perfect indulgence!
Ingredients:
500g beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
4 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tbsp butter
4 slices of bread (for toasting)
1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
Sear the beef: In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add carrots, potatoes, and beef broth.
Simmer: Add the beef back to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors meld.
Prepare the toast: While the stew simmers, toast the bread slices and top each slice with shredded cheese. Place them under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, top with a cheesy toast slice, and garnish with fresh thyme.
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish on a cozy evening!
Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow this detailed guide. First, pat the beef cubes completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for a proper sear. Heat your pot over medium-high heat before adding the butter. Sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, which steams the meat. Once all beef is browned and set aside, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for a full 15-20 minutes until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. This step builds the foundational “French onion” flavor. Then, add the garlic and cook for one more minute before proceeding with the carrots, potatoes, and broth.
Serving Suggestions
This stew is a complete meal, but you can enhance the experience. Serve it in wide, shallow bowls to best accommodate the cheesy toast. For a lighter side, a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness. If serving a crowd, consider preparing a platter of extra cheesy toasts on the side. Pair the stew with a robust red wine like a Syrah or a Malbec.
How-to Summary
In summary: Dry and sear beef cubes in batches. Caramelize onions slowly for deep flavor. Combine all stew ingredients and simmer until beef is fork-tender. Top toasted bread with cheese and broil. Serve stew topped with the cheesy toast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? Yes. After searing the beef and caramelizing the onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker with the broth and vegetables. Cook on low for 7-8 hours. Add the cheesy toast just before serving.
What can I use instead of Gruyère cheese? Swiss, Emmental, or a good aged white cheddar are excellent substitutes that also melt well and offer a sharp flavor.
How can I thicken the stew if it’s too thin? Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
How long will leftovers keep? Store the stew (without the toast) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. The toast is best made fresh.
Can I freeze this stew? Absolutely. Cool the stew completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not skip searing the beef, as it creates essential flavor. Do not rush the caramelization of the onions; low and slow is key. Do not add the cheese toast to the stew bowl too early, or it will become soggy. Finally, do not under-season; taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end of cooking.
Conclusion
This French Onion Beef Stew masterfully combines the deep, savory notes of caramelized onion soup with the heartiness of a classic beef stew. The finishing touch of a bubbling, cheesy toast transforms it into a truly special and comforting meal. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can consistently create a restaurant-worthy dish perfect for any cozy evening at home.