Satisfy Your Cravings: The Easiest Way To Make Beef Stew With Leftover Roast

Are you looking to give your leftover roast a new life? Look no further than this delightful recipe that turns your leftover roast into a savory and comforting beef stew. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish will warm your soul and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds leftover roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Brown the Roast: Add the cubed leftover roast to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.

4. Deglaze the Pan: If using red wine, add it to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cook until the wine has reduced by half, about 2 minutes.

5. Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.

6. Add Vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.

7. Simmer: Cover and simmer the stew for 1-2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

8. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use a dark beer instead of red wine.
• Add other vegetables to your stew, such as mushrooms, green beans, or peas.
• If you don’t have leftover roast, you can use pre-cooked beef cubes.
• Serve the stew with a dollop of sour cream or grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations:

• Creamy Beef Stew: Add 1 cup of heavy cream to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Spicy Beef Stew: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• Shepherd’s Pie: Top the stew with mashed potatoes and bake in the oven until golden brown.

Why Use Leftover Roast?

Using leftover roast is not only a great way to reduce food waste, but it also adds a delicious depth of flavor to your stew. The roasted meat has already developed a rich and savory profile, which enhances the overall taste of the stew.

Health Benefits of Beef Stew

Beef stew is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides protein, iron, and zinc, while the vegetables offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This dish is a healthy and satisfying meal option for the whole family.

FAQ:

1. Can I use any type of leftover roast?
Yes, you can use any type of leftover roast, such as beef, pork, or lamb.

2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the stew in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

3. How can I thicken the stew?
You can thicken the stew by adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) or by adding a roux (equal parts butter and flour).

4. Can I freeze the stew?
Yes, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze.

5. What can I serve with beef stew?
Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice.