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One Pot Beef Stew

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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.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours

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

  • Prepare the Beef: In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with flour, salt, and pepper until the meat is evenly coated.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.