There’s nothing quite like the hearty embrace of a steaming bowl of beef stew with dumplings on a chilly evening. This classic dish combines melt-in-your-mouth tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and fluffy dumplings that soak up every bit of the rich, flavorful gravy. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for your family or looking to impress at a gathering, this recipe is all about warmth, comfort, and deliciousness. Let’s dive into the steps to make this soul-soothing dish right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients List:
| Ingredient | Measurement (Imperial) | Measurement (Metric) |
|---|---|---|
| Beef chuck, diced | 1.5 lbs | 680 g |
| Carrots, sliced | 2 cups | 250 g |
| Potatoes, diced | 2 cups | 250 g |
| Onion, chopped | 1 large | 150 g |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | 2 cloves |
| Beef broth | 4 cups | 1 liter |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | 30 g |
| Flour | 3 tbsp | 24 g |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 30 ml |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves | 2 leaves |
| Thyme, dried | 1 tsp | 5 g |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | To taste |
| Self-rising flour | 1.5 cups | 180 g |
| Butter | 3 tbsp | 45 g |
| Milk | 3/4 cup | 180 ml |
Recipe Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced beef chuck and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes until softened.
- Build the Stew Base: Stir in the tomato paste and sprinkle flour over the vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes, then gradually add the beef broth, stirring to avoid lumps.
- Simmer: Return the beef to the pot, add bay leaves and thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
- Prepare the Dumplings: In a bowl, combine self-rising flour and butter, rubbing them together until crumbly. Gradually add milk until the dough is soft but not sticky.
- Add Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the simmering stew. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, ensuring everyone gets a good mix of beef, vegetables, and dumplings. Serve warm.
Kitchen Accessories Needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Nutritional Information & Servings:
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 26 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
Origin of the Dish: Beef stew with dumplings is a traditional comfort food with roots in European cuisine, particularly the British Isles. The dish’s hearty ingredients made it a staple for cold weather and a favorite among working families.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, lamb or chicken can be used as substitutes for beef.
- What can I use instead of self-rising flour for the dumplings? You can mix all-purpose flour with 1.5 tsp of baking powder and a pinch of salt.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Parsnips, celery, and peas make great additions.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour for the dumplings and a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch for the stew.
- Can I cook this in a slow cooker? Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the dumplings during the last hour.
Beef stew with dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and textures to create a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Ready to get started? Grab your Dutch oven and get cooking today!
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