Go Back

One Pot Beef Stew

Millard Fillmore’s one-pot beef stew is more than just a meal; it’s a reflection of the simplicity and practicality that defined his life and presidency. As you enjoy this hearty dish, you’re not just tasting a piece of American culinary history—you’re connecting with the traditions and values that shaped one of the nation’s early leaders.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours

Jump To

IngredientsMethodVideoNotes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound beef stew meat chuck or round, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 4 large carrots peeled and sliced
  • 3 large potatoes peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 cup peas optional
  • Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions
 

  1. Prepare the Beef: In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with flour, salt, and pepper until the meat is evenly coated.
  2. Brown the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will add extra flavor to the stew.
  5. Add the Vegetables and Beef: Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Return the browned beef to the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Simmer the Stew: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  7. Add Peas and Finish: If using, add the peas to the stew in the last 10 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf, and season the stew with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Video

Notes

Versatility: This one-pot beef stew is highly versatile. You can add other vegetables like parsnips or turnips, depending on what you have on hand.
Flavor: The key to a rich, flavorful stew is allowing it to simmer slowly, giving the flavors time to meld together.
Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.