Description
This classic Hamburger Stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Made with lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth thickened with tomato paste and flour, this stew simmers to tender perfection, offering a rich depth of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 sticks celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth (plus more if needed)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Brown the beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 8 minutes until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Thicken with flour: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes. This helps create a thicker stew base.
- Add tomato paste: Stir in the can of tomato paste thoroughly, coating the beef and vegetables evenly.
- Add liquids and vegetables: Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and sprinkle in Italian seasoning. Then add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Simmer the stew: Reduce heat to a rapid simmer, cover the pot with the lid slightly open, and cook for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally, adding more broth if the stew becomes too thick. If a thicker stew is preferred, continue cooking uncovered to reduce the liquid.
- Finish with peas and season: Stir in the frozen peas, allowing them to heat through, then adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker stew, cook longer uncovered to reduce the liquid.
- Frozen peas are optional but add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
- Add extra beef broth if the stew becomes too thick during simmering.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content but still maintain flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a more filling meal.
