- **Cannellini beans** (or kidney beans, for protein and creaminess)
- **Pearl barley** (or farro, for chewy, nutty grains)
- **Bay leaves** (for subtle herbal notes)
- **Dried thyme** (for earthy warmth)
- **Paprika** (for smoky depth)
- **Salt and black pepper** (to taste, for seasoning)
- **Fresh parsley** (chopped, for garnish and freshness)
- **Optional: Worcestershire sauce** (for added umami and depth)
- **Optional: Red wine** (for deglazing and richness)
This **hearty beef stew recipe** is packed with **protein-rich beef**, **fiber-filled beans**, and **nutritious grains**, making it a **comforting one-pot meal** perfect for cold nights or meal prep. Keywords like **stovetop beef stew**, **beans and grains**, and **hearty stew recipe** make this dish easy to find for food lovers searching online.
Steps
# How to Make a Hearty Stovetop Beef Stew with Beans and Grains
Warm up with a comforting bowl of **hearty stovetop beef stew** packed with **protein-rich beans** and **nutritious grains**. This **one-pot meal** is perfect for chilly nights and is loaded with **flavorful ingredients** that make it a family favorite. Follow these **step-by-step instructions** to create a **delicious and wholesome beef stew** that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
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## Ingredients for Beef Stew with Beans and Grains
- 1.5 lbs **beef stew meat**, cubed
- 1 cup **mixed beans** (kidney beans, black beans, or chickpeas), soaked overnight
- 1/2 cup **grains** (barley, quinoa, or farro)
- 1 large **onion**, diced
- 3 **carrots**, sliced
- 3 **celery stalks**, chopped
- 4 cloves **garlic**, minced
- 4 cups **beef broth** (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 cups **water**
- 2 tbsp **tomato paste**
- 2 tbsp **olive oil**
- 1 tsp **dried thyme**
- 1 tsp **smoked paprika**
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
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## Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. **Prepare the Ingredients**
- Soak the **mixed beans** overnight or use canned beans for convenience.
- Chop the **onion, carrots, celery, and garlic** for the base of the stew.
- Rinse the **grains** thoroughly to remove any debris.
### 2. **Brown the Beef**
- Heat **olive oil** in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the **beef stew meat** with salt and pepper, then brown it in batches to avoid overcrowding. This step locks in flavor and creates a rich base for the stew.
### 3. **Sauté the Vegetables**
- In the same pot, add the **onion, carrots, celery, and garlic**. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the **tomato paste, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf**, coating the vegetables evenly.
### 4. **Add Liquids and Simmer**
- Pour in the **beef broth** and **water**, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Add the **browned beef**, **soaked beans**, and **grains** to the pot. Stir well to combine.
### 5. **Cook the Stew**
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for **1.5 to 2 hours**, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the beans are cooked through.
### 6. **Adjust Seasoning and Serve**
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove the **bay leaf** and discard.
- Garnish with fresh **parsley** for a pop of color and freshness.
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## Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew
- **Slow Cooking Option**: For deeper flavor, transfer the stew to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- **Customize Grains**: Swap out grains for your favorite, such as brown rice or bulgur.
- **Storage**: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
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This **hearty beef stew with beans and grains** is a **nutrient-dense, filling meal** that’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner. With its **rich flavors** and **wholesome ingredients**, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!