Budget-friendly Feast: How To Make Stew With Leftover Beef For Pennies

Leftover beef, whether from a roast, steak, or pot roast, can be the foundation for a delicious and comforting stew. Here’s a step-by-step guide to turn your leftover beef into a culinary masterpiece:

1. Gather Your Ingredients

• Leftover cooked beef, shredded or diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

2. Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the leftover beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Deglaze the Pot

If using red wine, pour it into the pot and let it simmer until reduced by half. This step will add depth of flavor to the stew.

5. Add the Beef and Broth

Return the browned beef to the pot and add the beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

6. Thicken the Stew

In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato paste and a little bit of the stew liquid. Add this mixture to the pot and stir until the stew thickens.

7. Season to Taste

Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and simmer for another 15 minutes.

8. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Stew

• Use a variety of vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
• Don’t overcook the beef, as it will become tough.
• If the stew is too thick, add more beef broth or water.
• If the stew is too thin, thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or red wine vinegar for extra flavor.

Leftover Magic

Leftover stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little bit of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQ

1. Can I use any type of leftover beef for this stew?
Yes, any type of cooked beef will work, such as roast beef, steak, or pot roast.

2. What if I don’t have red wine?
You can substitute with an equal amount of beef broth or water.

3. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

4. What should I serve with this stew?
Crust bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles are all great accompaniments.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as green beans, peas, or potatoes.