Let me introduce you to a true comfort classic: the Beef and Pea Stew Recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is exactly what you crave when the weather cools down or you want to gather everyone around the table for a heartwarming meal. With tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a broth fragrant with cumin, paprika, and a whisper of cinnamon, this stew is rich, filling, and vibrant, yet simple enough for any home cook to master. No overcomplicated steps—just beautiful, honest ingredients coming together in one pot. With each spoonful, you’ll taste why this Beef and Pea Stew Recipe stands out as a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Beef and Pea Stew Recipe is how a handful of everyday ingredients—each with a specific purpose—combine to deliver big flavor. Every component plays its part, whether it’s adding savory depth, a touch of sweetness, or that irresistible bit of freshness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive Oil: A robust foundation that helps sear the beef and coax out the best flavors from your veggies.
- Beef Stew Meat: Go for well-marbled chunks; these transform into succulent bites after slow simmering.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out every ingredient’s natural taste.
- Onion: Chopped onion brings underlying sweetness and depth after being sautéed.
- Garlic: Minced cloves bring aromatic warmth that infuses the stew beautifully.
- Tomato Paste: A big umami boost that thickens the broth and rounds out the flavor.
- Ground Cumin: Adds earthiness and ties the Mediterranean flavors together.
- Paprika: Just a pinch provides color and gentle smokiness.
- Ground Cinnamon: Unexpected but essential—a small amount for subtle sweetness and intrigue.
- Beef Broth: The liquid gold that marries everything into a rich, comforting stew.
- Carrots: Sliced for bursts of color and natural sweetness.
- Potatoes: Cubed for a hearty, tender texture that helps thicken the stew.
- Frozen Peas: Add these at the end for vibrant color and a pop of freshness.
- Lemon Juice: Just a tablespoon wakes up the whole pot and balances the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle on top for a lively, herbal finish.
How to Make Beef and Pea Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
The first step sets the stage for a truly flavorful Beef and Pea Stew Recipe. Heat the olive oil in your largest, heaviest pot over medium-high heat. While that’s warming up, generously season your beef with salt and pepper. Sear the beef cubes in batches—don’t crowd the pan!—until each piece develops a deep brown crust on all sides. This caramelization is where the stew begins to build its signature richness. Set the browned beef aside on a plate for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Without cleaning the pot (all those browned bits are pure flavor!), lower the heat to medium and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about five minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Let everything sizzle for about a minute, until the kitchen smells absolutely irresistible—this quick step blooms the spices and brings even deeper flavor to your Beef and Pea Stew Recipe.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Return the beef (and any juices) to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and give everything a thorough stir, scraping up any tasty bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot, drop the heat to low, and let the stew bubble softly for a full hour. This patient simmering coaxes out tenderness from the beef and makes your stew’s base soul-satisfyingly rich.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
After the hour is up, slip in the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes. With the lid off, let the stew simmer for another 30 to 40 minutes. The vegetables soften, the beef grows even more tender, and the broth thickens slightly into a luscious sauce—the result you want in a Beef and Pea Stew Recipe. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks.
Step 5: Finish and Brighten
With the beef and veggies fork-tender, it’s time for the final touches. Add the frozen peas and simmer for another five minutes so they stay bright green and sweet. Just before serving, stir in the lemon juice; this gives the whole stew a lift and balances the richness beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasonings if you like, then shower everything with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Serve Beef and Pea Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving makes this Beef and Pea Stew Recipe shine with color and a touch of herbal brightness. If you love a little heat, a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or even a dash of red pepper flakes can add a welcome kick. For an elegant touch, try grating a bit of lemon zest right over each bowl to amplify that citrusy finish.
Side Dishes
This stew is hearty enough to stand on its own, but what really makes it special is pairing it with the right sides. Thick slices of crusty bread are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth—you don’t want to miss a drop! Alternatively, ladle your Beef and Pea Stew Recipe over a scoop of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Even a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a lovely counterpart.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re in the mood to impress, try ladling the stew into individual bread bowls or serving it family-style in a big, rustic pot at the center of the table. For a dinner party, dish the stew into small ramekins or mugs as a cozy appetizer. You can also try topping each serving with a dollop of garlicky Greek yogurt or a swirl of harissa for a personal, Mediterranean-inspired flourish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Beef and Pea Stew Recipe are a true blessing, as the flavors deepen overnight. Simply let the stew cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. When you’re ready, just scoop out what you need—this stew actually improves as it sits!
Freezing
This stew freezes beautifully, making it a lifesaver for busy nights. Allow the Beef and Pea Stew Recipe to cool completely before ladling into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Store in the freezer for up to three months. It’s best to freeze in individual portions for easy thawing and reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm the stew gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally until hot and bubbling. If microwaving, cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming. Finish with a little fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While traditional stew meat (like chuck) is ideal for its marbling, you can substitute with brisket, short rib, or even round if that’s what you have. Just be aware that leaner cuts may need a shorter simmer to avoid drying out.
Is it possible to make Beef and Pea Stew Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Sear the beef and sauté the aromatics as described, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add the broth, carrots, and potatoes, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Add the peas and lemon juice in the last 15 minutes.
What if I want a thicker stew?
For a heartier, thicker Beef and Pea Stew Recipe, simply mash a few pieces of potato right into the broth near the end of cooking. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce and concentrate the sauce.
Can I swap the frozen peas for fresh or canned?
Both fresh and canned peas can work in a pinch. Fresh peas can be added with the carrots and potatoes, while canned peas should be stirred in just at the end as they only need to warm up. For the brightest flavor and color, frozen peas are still the star.
Is this Beef and Pea Stew Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe contains no gluten ingredients, so it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your beef broth and any additional sides, like bread, are certified gluten-free if you’re serving those.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a pot of Beef and Pea Stew Recipe simmering away in the kitchen, filling your home with savory aromas and the promise of a deeply satisfying meal. I hope this recipe inspires you to gather your loved ones and create new memories around a steaming bowl. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite comfort classic!
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Beef and Pea Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Beef and Pea Stew Recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender beef stew meat with a flavorful blend of spices, vegetables, and peas. Perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day, this Mediterranean-inspired stew is sure to satisfy your cravings for a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef Stew:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds beef stew meat cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Stew Base:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Beef: Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear in a Dutch oven until browned. Set aside.
- Make Stew Base: Sauté onions, garlic, tomato paste, and spices until fragrant.
- Cook Stew: Return beef to the pot, add beef broth, simmer, then add carrots and potatoes. Cook until tender.
- Add Peas: Stir in frozen peas and cook for a few more minutes. Finish with lemon juice and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- This stew pairs well with crusty bread or served over rice.
- For a thicker stew, mash a few potato chunks into the broth before adding peas.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
