Tender Beef and Potato Stew

Tender Beef and Potato Stew

Few meals are as comforting as a hearty Tender Beef and Potato Stew. This traditional home-style stew features tender chunks of slow-cooked beef simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy with soft potatoes and aromatic herbs and spices. It's the perfect meal for chilly evenings, Sunday family dinners, or anytime you're craving classic comfort food.

Serve this delicious beef stew with fluffy white rice, crusty bread, or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food
• Tender, slow-cooked beef
• Rich and flavorful homemade gravy
• Perfect for cold weather
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Family-friendly recipe

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Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2½ hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: South African
• Difficulty: Easy

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Ingredients

• 1 kg beef stewing meat, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 500 ml beef stock
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon mixed herbs
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes

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Method

1. Brown the Beef

Heat the oil in a large pot and brown the beef in batches. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Onion

Sauté the onion until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Build the Base

Stir in the flour and tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute.

4. Add the Liquid and Seasonings

Add the beef stock, water, paprika, curry powder, mixed herbs, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. Stir well.

5. Simmer the Stew

Return the beef to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat.

Cover and simmer for about 1½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is almost tender.

6. Add the Potatoes

Add the potatoes and cook for another 30–40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the gravy has thickened.

7. Serve

Taste and season with salt and black pepper if needed.

Serve hot with fluffy white rice.

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Chef's Tip

• Add a tablespoon of apricot jam or a splash of red wine to the gravy for extra depth of flavor.
• This stew tastes even better the next day.
• Brown the beef well before simmering to develop a richer flavor.
• Slow cooking is the secret to tender beef and a flavorful gravy.

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Variations

• Add carrots or peas for extra vegetables.
• Stir in sliced mushrooms for a richer flavor.
• Add fresh thyme or rosemary for additional aroma.
• For a spicier stew, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

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Storage

Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of beef for stew?

Chuck, blade, or stewing beef are excellent choices because they become tender during slow cooking.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes. In fact, the flavors become even richer after resting overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I cook it in a slow cooker?

Yes. Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.

What can I serve with beef stew?

It pairs perfectly with white rice, mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or pap.

How can I thicken the gravy?

Allow the stew to simmer uncovered for the final 10–15 minutes so the gravy reduces naturally.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: ~38g
• Carbohydrates: ~23g
• Fat: ~29g
• Fiber: ~3g

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.

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Final Thoughts

This Tender Beef and Potato Stew is the definition of homemade comfort food. Tender beef, soft potatoes, and a rich, flavorful gravy come together to create a hearty meal that's perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings. Whether served over steamed rice or with warm crusty bread, this timeless recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.