Mom's Hearty Beef Stew with Dumplings

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When the weather turns chilly and you're craving a warm and comforting meal, nothing beats a bowl of Mom's Hearty Beef Stew with Dumplings.

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Mom's Hearty Beef Stew with Dumplings
Prep
30 min
Cook
3 hr 10 min
Total
3 hr 40 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. Heat oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  2. Add beef and onion, stirring well.

  3. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of steak seasoning over the meat and onions, then sprinkle the remaining teaspoon of steak seasoning.

  4. Add celery and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned.

  5. Pour in 2 cups of water (or enough to just cover the meat, onion, and celery).

  6. Bring to a boil, stirring and scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

  7. Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 2 hours until the beef is very tender.

  8. Remove the meat and celery from the pan, setting the meat aside and discarding the celery.

  9. Make the gravy:

  10. In a separate bowl, whisk together the gravy mix and 4 cups of water.

  11. Add the gravy mixture to the juices in the pot, bring to a boil, and stir the meat back into the gravy mixture.

  12. Stir in carrots and turnip, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

  13. Stir in potatoes, cover, and simmer for an additional 20 minutes.

  14. Make the dumplings:

  15. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.

  16. Cut shortening into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or two knives until it becomes crumbly.

  17. Pour

About this recipe

When the weather turns chilly and you're craving a warm and comforting meal, nothing beats a bowl of Mom's Hearty Beef Stew with Dumplings. This classic dish is packed with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

The Secret to a Perfect Beef Stew

Creating a delicious beef stew starts with choosing the right ingredients. Mom always said that the quality of the beef makes all the difference. Look for well-marbled cuts like chuck or stewing beef, as they will become tender and flavorful during the slow cooking process. Don't forget to brown the beef before adding it to the stew - this step adds a rich caramelized flavor that takes the dish to the next level.

The Magic of Slow Cooking

One of the reasons Mom's beef stew is so incredibly tasty is because it's cooked low and slow. This allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. So grab your trusty slow cooker or a large pot, and let the stew simmer away for a few hours. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering!

The Perfect Dumplings

No beef stew is complete without a batch of fluffy dumplings to soak up all the delicious gravy. Mom's dumplings are light, airy, and oh-so-satisfying. The secret to their perfection lies in the right balance of ingredients and a gentle touch when mixing the dough. Be sure to drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the simmering stew just before serving, and let them cook until they are puffed up and cooked through.

In Conclusion

There's something truly special about Mom's Hearty Beef Stew with Dumplings. From the tender chunks of beef to the flavorful vegetables and fluffy dumplings, every bite is a comforting delight. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that will warm your heart and bring smiles to your loved ones' faces. This stew is the epitome of comfort food, and it's guaranteed to become a family favorite for years to come.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of meat for the stew?

While beef is the traditional choice for this stew, you can certainly experiment with other meats like lamb or even chicken. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a convenient option and will work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, this stew is perfect for meal prepping. In fact, the flavors tend to deepen and become even more delicious when made ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Mom's beef stew freezes beautifully. Just transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I add other vegetables to the stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite vegetables to the stew. Carrots, celery, potatoes, and peas are classic choices, but you can also throw in some mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips for added flavor and texture.

Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture of the dumplings may be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.

Can I make this stew on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! If you don't have a slow cooker, you can easily make this stew on the stovetop. Just follow the same steps but simmer the stew over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Can I add red wine to the stew?

Absolutely! Adding a splash of red wine to the stew adds a depth of flavor and richness. Just pour in about half a cup of your favorite red wine during the cooking process and let it simmer away.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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