Classic Beef Stew

This hearty beef stew features plenty of delicious, garden-fresh herbs and vegetables, so it’s a great way to enjoy those savory treasures from your own garden or the local farmers’ market. This satisfy dish can be served on its own or paired with your favorite salad for a more well-rounded meal. Either way, this recipe will feed a crowd - or leave plenty of leftovers for lunch the next day. Prep time: 20-25 minutes Cook time: 1½ - 2½ hours Serves: 8

Ingredients:

2 T. extra virgin olive oil 3-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced 1cup. white mushrooms, sliced 1kg. beef stew, cut into 1” cubes Sea salt and black pepper, to taste 3-4 c. beef stock, divided* 1 c. dry red wine 1 whole bay leaf 3 large carrots, chopped 2 large stalks celery, finely diced 1 medium brown onion, diced 2 lbs. Russet potatoes, chopped 2 t. fresh thyme leaves, rinsed 2 t. fresh oregano leaves, rinsed 1 T. fresh rosemary leaves, chopped

*Use more or less beef stock to achieve the desired consistency

Directions:

1. Wash and peel all vegetables and pat dry before prepping. (Potato skins can either be left on or removed based on personal preference).

2. Heat olive oil, garlic, and mushrooms in a large , high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until mushrooms start to release their liquid, stirring occasionally.

3. Working in batches if necessary, add beef to skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Transfer browned beef and mushroom mixture to a large bowl, and return empty skillet to the cooktop.

4. Deglaze pan with 1 cup beef stock and the red wine over medium-high heat, using a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits. Boil liquid until reduced by one half before returning the beef-mushroom mixture to the skillet.

5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add 2 cups of beef broth and the bay leaf to the pan. Cover and simmer for 1-1½ hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir beef mixture occasionally while simmering.

6. Remove lid and add carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, and fresh herbs. Stir to combine and add additional beef stock, if necessary, to reach desired consistency.

Continue simmering, uncovered, for another 20-25 minutes or until potatoes and carrots are tender, but not mushy. Remove from heat and discard bay leaf. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste. Spoon hot stew into individual serving bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy