Chunky beef stew bread bowl. Oh, friends, are you ready for the ultimate comfort food hug? This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine sinking your spoon into a rich, savory beef stew, nestled inside a warm, crusty bread bowl. Total deliciousness. I think you’ll agree that this chunky beef stew bread bowl is the ultimate way to enjoy a classic stew. This recipe is inspired by chilly evenings and satisfying cravings, and it’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
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Why You Will Love This chunky beef stew bread bowl Recipe
This chunky beef stew in a bread bowl is pure comfort in a dish. It’s that kind of meal you crave after a long day. What makes this recipe special? It’s the perfect harmony of hearty stew and a delicious bread bowl. Each bite is a textural masterpiece and a symphony of flavor. Need another comfort food idea? Why not check out this Burger Bowl Recipe!
This recipe is also incredibly easy to adapt. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. I love that you can make it your own. The best part? The cleanup is minimal! You practically eat the bowl! Now that’s a win win situation.
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Ingredients Needed for This chunky beef stew bread bowl Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing dish:
For the Beef Stew:- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup cold water (for thickening)
- 4 round bread loaves (sourdough or rustic)
How to Make This chunky beef stew bread bowl Recipe
Let’s get cooking! Here are the easy steps to make this delightful meal:
- 1. Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- 2. Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3. Build the Stew: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- 4. Add Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes to the stew and continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- 5. Thicken the Stew: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) to thicken the stew. Cook for a few minutes until the stew reaches your desired consistency.
- 6. Final Touches: Stir in frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.
- 7. Prepare Bread Bowls: While the stew is simmering, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a serrated knife, cut a circle out of the top of each bread loaf. Hollow out the inside of the bread, leaving about 1 inch of bread around the edges. Keep the bread that you scooped out. You can use it for dipping!
- 8. Assemble and Serve: Ladle the chunky beef stew into the bread bowls. Serve immediately. You can toast the bread bowl in the oven for a few minutes if you like it extra crispy.
How to Serve This chunky beef stew bread bowl Recipe
Serving this chunky beef stew bread bowl is an experience in itself! Present each bread bowl on a plate for an impressive presentation.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Offer a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for extra flavor.
How to Store This chunky beef stew bread bowl Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The bread bowls are best eaten fresh but can also be stored separately in a plastic bag at room temperature for a day or two.
- Freezing: Stew can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Avoid freezing the bread bowls, as they may become soggy.
- Reheating: Reheat the stew in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Toast the bread bowl before filling for better texture.
Tips to Make This chunky beef stew bread bowl Recipe
- Beef Selection: Use beef chuck for the best flavor and tender texture after slow cooking. Sear it well to develop deeper flavors!
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips to the stew.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Bread Choice: Opt for a sturdy bread loaf that can hold the stew without becoming too soggy. Sourdough and rustic breads work great!
Helpful Notes for This chunky beef stew bread bowl Recipe
- Beef Chuck Details: Beef chuck is a tougher cut of meat but becomes incredibly tender when slow cooked. This makes it perfect for stew.
- Red Wine Option: If you don’t want to use red wine, simply substitute it with more beef broth.
- Bread Bowl Sizes: Adjust the bread bowl size depending on your appetite. Smaller rolls can be used for appetizers or individual portions.
Variation of This chunky beef stew bread bowl Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: In the fall, add butternut squash or sweet potatoes to the stew for a seasonal flair.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier stew.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
What is the best way to keep a bread bowl from getting soggy with stew?
To prevent a soggy bread bowl, consider toasting the inside of the bread before filling it with the stew. You can also lightly coat the inside with olive oil or butter to create a barrier against the moisture of the stew.
Can I freeze chunky beef stew to use in a bread bowl later?
Yes, you can definitely freeze chunky beef stew. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving in a bread bowl.
What type of beef is best for chunky beef stew?
Chuck roast is generally considered the best cut of beef for stew due to its rich flavor and ability to become tender during slow cooking. Other suitable options include beef brisket or stew meat, ensuring they are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
What kind of bread is best for bread bowls?
Sourdough or country-style bread is a great choice for bread bowls due to their sturdy texture and hearty flavor. Look for round loaves with a thick crust and a soft, airy interior that can hold the stew well.
Conclusion
I genuinely hope you enjoyed this recipe for chunky beef stew bread bowl. It’s a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and a whole lot of flavor to the table. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly memorable meal. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment or ask any questions below. Happy cooking!
