Beef Stew Soup That Warms the Soul
There’s something deeply comforting about a pot of beef stew simmering on the stove. The rich aroma fills the kitchen, and every spoonful feels hearty and satisfying. This beef stew soup combines tender chunks of beef chuck, rustic vegetables, and a savory broth enriched with tomato paste and a splash of red wine. It’s simple, honest food that delivers warmth in every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for family on a chilly evening or preparing meals ahead for the week, this stew is dependable and nourishing. The slow simmer transforms affordable cuts of beef into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness while the vegetables soak up all the flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
Beef
2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
Oil
2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables
1 onion, diced
4 carrots, cut into chunks
4 potatoes, cut into chunks
4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Seasoning
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Brown the beef in batches, searing on all sides for deep color. Remove and set aside.
Add diced onion to the same pot and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
Deglaze with red wine (if using), scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Return the beef to the pot, then add carrots and potatoes.
Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, ensuring ingredients are mostly covered. Bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 75–90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender. Adjust seasoning before serving.
Tips
Choose well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness.
Do not overcrowd the pot when browning beef.
Browning adds depth, so don’t rush this step.
Cut vegetables into large chunks so they hold shape.
Simmer gently, not rapidly, to avoid tough meat.
Taste broth halfway through cooking and adjust salt.
Add a splash more broth if stew thickens too much.
Let stew rest 10 minutes before serving.
Skim excess fat from the surface if desired.
Stew tastes even better the next day.
Variations
Add celery for additional aromatic flavor.
Stir in peas during the last 5 minutes.
Add fresh thyme or bay leaves while simmering.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
Add mushrooms for earthy depth.
Thicken with a cornstarch slurry for a richer texture.
Include parsnips for sweetness.
Make it spicy with a pinch of chili flakes.
Use balsamic vinegar instead of wine for acidity.
Turn leftovers into pot pie filling.
Q&A
Can I skip the wine?
Yes. Replace it with extra broth.
Why is my beef tough?
It likely needs more simmering time.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook on low for 7–8 hours.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Cool completely before freezing for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat it?
Warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat.
Can I use another cut of beef?
Yes, but chuck works best for stewing.
How do I thicken the broth?
Simmer uncovered longer or use a slurry.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Can I add herbs?
Absolutely. Fresh thyme or rosemary works well.
What should I serve with it?
Crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs perfectly.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 420–480
Protein: 35–40g
Carbohydrates: 30–35g
Fat: 20–25g
Fiber: 4–6g
Sodium: Varies based on broth used
This stew provides high-quality protein from beef and essential vitamins from vegetables. It’s filling, balanced, and perfect for colder days.
Conclusion
Beef stew soup is the kind of meal that brings comfort without complication. Tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a deeply savory broth come together in a way that feels timeless and satisfying. With simple ingredients and steady simmering, you create a dish that nourishes both body and spirit. Serve it hot, gather around the table, and enjoy a bowl that truly warms the soul.