Autumn Beef Stew

Sep 17, 2023

As the autumn leaves start to fall and the air gets crisper, a hearty beef stew can warm both body and soul. This upscale version of the classic comfort dish incorporates seasonal ingredients and gourmet touches to elevate your dining experience. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that captures the essence of autumn.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup red wine (preferably a rich Bordeaux)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, cut into thick rounds
  • 2 parsnips, cut into thick rounds
  • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 4 cups beef broth (or bone broth for added richness)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup wild mushrooms (like chanterelles or porcini)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
  • 1 tbsp truffle oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Browning the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add beef to the pot in batches, ensuring each piece is browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Base: In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute.
  3. Deglazing: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release the flavorful bits. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half.
  4. Building the Stew: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add carrots, parsnips, butternut squash, bay leaves, and thyme. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the meat and veggies are submerged.
  5. Slow Cooking: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
  6. Adding Mushrooms: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the wild mushrooms.
  7. Final Touches: Once cooked, adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Serve hot in bowls, drizzled with a touch of truffle oil (if using) and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

This autumn beef stew, infused with rich flavors and luxurious touches, is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of the season’s bounties. Enjoy with crusty bread and a glass of the same red wine used in the stew for a perfect dining experience.