Warm your heart and fill your home with the irresistible aroma of our Herbed Beef Stew with Corn Dumplings! This classic American dish is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace on a chilly day, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Picture tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection with hearty vegetables, all topped off with fluffy corn dumplings that soak up every bit of savory goodness. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat? Dive into our recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering stew that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the beef chuck into 1-inch cubes, chop the onion, slice the carrots, and dice the potatoes. Set everything aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in 4 cups of beef broth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about
- 5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- While the stew is simmering, prepare the corn dumplings. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of milk, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick but pourable. Set aside to rest for about 10 minutes.
- After the stew has simmered for
- 5 hours, gently stir the cornmeal mixture into the stew. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter on top of the stew, making sure they are evenly spaced. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the dumplings to steam in the stew for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.
- Once the dumplings are ready, remove the pot from the heat. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the herbed beef stew hot, ensuring each bowl gets a generous portion of stew and dumplings.
Tips
- Sear the Beef Properly: Don’t rush the searing process! Browning the beef cubes in batches allows for a rich, deep flavor that enhances the overall taste of your stew.
- Use Quality Broth: For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality beef broth or make your own. This will elevate the stew and give it a more robust taste.
- Let it Simmer: Patience is key! Allow the stew to simmer for the full
- 5 hours to ensure the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Rest the Dumpling Batter: Letting the cornmeal mixture rest for about 10 minutes before adding it to the stew helps the dumplings achieve the perfect fluffy texture.
- Don’t Peek Too Much: When cooking the dumplings, resist the urge to lift the lid! Keeping it covered ensures the steam stays inside, allowing the dumplings to cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your stew before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference!
- Serve Hot: This stew is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
