How to make beef stew

 Here's a basic recipe for beef stew:

Ingredients:

- 1.5 to 2 pounds of stew beef, cut into cubes

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 onion, diced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 cups beef broth

- 1 cup red wine (optional)

- 3 carrots, sliced

- 3 potatoes, diced

- 2 celery stalks, chopped

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 2 bay leaves

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening, if desired)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the stew beef and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

3. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. This adds flavor to the stew.

4. Add the browned beef back to the pot. Stir in carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix in tomato paste.

5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.

6. If you want a thicker stew, mix flour with a bit of water to create a smooth paste. Stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Enjoy your homemade beef stew!