Easy Beef Stew Recipe
This page offers two timeless variations: a classic Brown Stew and a rustic Venison Stew, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Recipes on this page
Use the links below to jump directly to each recipe.
Brown Stew
Ingredients
- 2 lb beef cubes
- 4 cups water
- one teaspoon lemon juice
- one teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- one medium onion, sliced
- two small bay leaves
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- one teaspoon sugar
- pinch of allspice
- 6 carrots
- 8 small onions
- 3 potatoes, quartered
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, brown the beef thoroughly in a little fat (this is the secret to a rich stew).
- Add water, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, sliced onion, bay leaves, salt, pepper, sugar, and allspice.
- Simmer about 2 hours.
- Add carrots, small onions, and quartered potatoes. Continue cooking about 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Thicken if desired, and serve. Dumplings can also be added if you like.
Serves 4–6.
Venison Stew
Ingredients
- 2 lb cut up venison
- 1 package onion soup mix
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 carrots
- 2 stalks celery
- 6 small onions
- 6 potatoes
Instructions
- In a pot or Dutch oven, cook venison with onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and water until tender, about 1 hour. Stir occasionally and add a little water if needed.
- Add carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, and salt.
- Cover and cook about 45 minutes (or longer), until vegetables are tender.
Serves 4–5.
FAQ
Why does the recipe emphasize browning the meat?
Deep browning adds flavor and color to the stew—don’t rush this step.
Can I make either stew in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the meat first, then cook on LOW until tender and add vegetables near the end so they don’t overcook.
How do I thicken stew without lumps?
Stir a little flour or cornstarch into cold water to make a slurry, then add it gradually to the simmering stew.
Can I substitute beef for venison (or vice versa)?
Yes. Cooking times may vary depending on the cut, but the method works well for either.