Apple Cider Beef Stew

Published:

by Sarah Connor

Leave a Comment

The aroma of Apple Cider Beef Stew fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to gather around the table. Imagine tender beef simmering in a warm, spiced apple cider broth, surrounded by colorful vegetables, each ingredient bursting with flavor and warmth. quick broccoli cheese casserole hearty beef enchilada casserole. For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with vegetables recipe.

Jump to:

This dish not only warms your belly but also your heart, reminding us of cozy family dinners and crisp autumn evenings. Ideal for any gathering, this stew promises an explosion of taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The Apple Cider Beef Stew is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
  • Its rich and comforting flavors will warm you from the inside out
  • Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate
  • Versatile enough to adapt to whatever veggies you have left in your fridge!

Sharing this recipe at our last family gathering led to smiles all around and a few happy tears; I think my Aunt Martha might have even hugged me after her second bowl!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Beef Chuck Roast: A well-marbled roast is ideal for stewing; it becomes incredibly tender during cooking.
  • Apple Cider: Use fresh, unfiltered cider for a natural sweetness and robust flavor.
  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; opt for medium-sized ones for even cooking.
  • Onions: Sweet onions enhance the flavor profile; sauté them until they are translucent for maximum sweetness.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth; be generous because garlic makes everything better!
  • Thyme: Fresh thyme leaves impart a lovely herbaceous note; dried thyme works in a pinch but fresh is best.
  • Beef Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control saltiness and let the beef flavors shine through.
  • Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well while providing creaminess; chop them into bite-sized pieces.
  • Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves bring aromatic depth—don’t forget to fish them out before serving!
  • Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your beef into 1-inch cubes and seasoning generously with salt and pepper. ground turkey and potatoes dish Dice the onions, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and cube the potatoes. This step sets you up for success.

Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add oil and heat until shimmering. Brown the beef in batches until nicely caramelized on all sides; this adds incredible depth of flavor.

Sauté Vegetables: Remove the beef from the pot and add diced onions. Sauté until translucent and fragrant before stirring in minced garlic. Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now.

Add Liquids: Pour in apple cider along with beef broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Those bits are packed with flavor!

Add Remaining Ingredients: Return seared beef to the pot along with potatoes, carrots, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything together like you’re creating your own masterpiece.

Braise Until Tender: Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours or until meat is fork-tender—your patience will pay off big time!

Enjoy this comforting Apple Cider Beef Stew as it warms your heart just as much as it fills your stomach!

You Must Know

  • This hearty apple cider beef stew combines sweet and savory flavors, creating a warm, comforting dish
  • Its rich aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner
  • Plus, it’s a forgiving recipe that allows you to adjust ingredients based on what you have at home

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef in batches for depth of flavor. Then, sauté onions, garlic, and carrots before adding the rest of the ingredients to build layers of taste.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider adding root vegetables like potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness. You can also swap beef broth for chicken broth if desired, depending on your taste preference. creamy coconut chicken tikka masala.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to retain flavor and texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • This apple cider beef stew is best made a day ahead; flavors deepen overnight
  • Use high-quality beef for tenderness and richness
  • Don’t rush the browning process; it adds essential flavor to your stew

Sharing this recipe reminds me of my first attempt at making apple cider beef stew during a chilly autumn evening. My friends declared it “restaurant-worthy,” and I’ve been hooked ever since. For more inspiration, check out this delicious beef and cheese recipe recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other meats for apple cider beef stew?

Yes, pork or chicken can be great alternatives if you prefer different flavors.

What should I serve with apple cider beef stew?

Crusty bread or rice pair well to soak up the delicious sauce.

How do I make my stew thicker?

Add a cornstarch slurry or mash some of the vegetables into the stew for natural thickening.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Apple Cider Beef Stew


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Gordon Calloway
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Apple Cider Beef Stew is a comforting dish that blends tender beef with the warm, spiced flavors of apple cider and fresh vegetables. This hearty stew is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings, bringing smiles and happy memories to your table. With its rich aroma and vibrant colors, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 cups fresh apple cider
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 large sweet onions, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat; brown the beef in batches until caramelized. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté onions until translucent; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Pour in apple cider and beef broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Return the beef to the pot with potatoes, carrots, thyme, and bay leaves; stir well.
  6. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours until meat is fork-tender.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 120 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Braising
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star