Description
French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Croutons
Ingredients:
For the Stew:
2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
3 large onions, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup dry red wine (optional)
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
2 cups diced potatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Croutons:
4 slices of crusty bread
1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
Brown the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches until browned. Remove and set aside.
Caramelize the Onions:
In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until golden and caramelized, about 15 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Build the Stew:
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Deglaze the pot with red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits. Add beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, and seared beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer:
Cover and cook for 1.5–2 hours until the beef is tender. Add diced potatoes in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Prepare Cheesy Croutons:
Preheat your broiler. Place bread slices on a baking sheet, top with shredded cheese, and broil until melted and bubbly.
Assemble and Serve:
Ladle the stew into bowls, top with cheesy croutons, and garnish with fresh thyme.
This comforting French onion-inspired beef stew will warm your soul and delight your taste buds!