This recipe delivers a comforting, thick, and easy homestyle beef stew with potatoes and corn – perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. It's designed for simplicity, minimizing prep time while maximizing flavor. We'll cover everything from choosing the right cut of beef to achieving that perfectly tender texture.
What Cut of Beef is Best for This Recipe?
Choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for a tender and flavorful stew. For this "thick and easy" homestyle beef recipe, chuck roast or beef stew meat are ideal choices. These cuts are tougher but contain more connective tissue, which breaks down during slow cooking, resulting in incredibly tender beef that melts in your mouth. Avoid leaner cuts, as they tend to become dry and tough when slow-cooked.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Homestyle Beef with Potatoes and Corn?
The cooking time for this recipe depends on your chosen cooking method and the toughness of your beef. Generally, using a slow cooker or Dutch oven will require approximately 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for the slow cooker or 2-3 hours in a Dutch oven over low heat. Always check the beef for tenderness; it should easily shred with a fork.
What are the best vegetables to use with Beef Stew?
While potatoes and corn are stars of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Carrots, celery, onions, and peas are excellent additions, offering a variety of textures and flavors. Adding them at different times helps ensure even cooking; heartier vegetables like carrots and potatoes should go in earlier, while quicker-cooking vegetables like peas can be added during the last 30 minutes.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable.
- Slow Cooker: Brown the beef as directed in the recipe below, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Instant Pot: Sauté the beef as instructed, then add all ingredients to the Instant Pot. Pressure cook on high for 60-75 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for at least 20 minutes.
Remember to adjust cooking times based on your specific appliance and desired tenderness.
How do I thicken my beef stew?
This recipe naturally thickens as it simmers, thanks to the potatoes and the beef's natural gelatin release. However, if you prefer a thicker consistency, you can incorporate a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) or a roux (a mixture of equal parts butter and flour cooked together). Whisk the slurry or roux into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking and simmer until thickened.
What are some variations for this recipe?
Get creative! Try these variations:
- Spicy Beef Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños for a kick.
- Herb-Infused Beef Stew: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a more aromatic stew.
- Barbecue Beef Stew: Use barbecue sauce instead of beef broth for a smoky, sweet flavor.
Thick and Easy Homestyle Beef with Potatoes and Corn Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the potatoes, corn, beef broth, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious, thick, and easy homestyle beef with potatoes and corn! Remember to adjust seasonings and cooking times to your preference. This recipe is a great base to experiment with and make your own.
