Beef stew is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a chilly day. It is a hearty and filling dish that can stand alone but pairing it with the right side dishes can take it to the next level, making it a meal that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will explore 10 delicious side dishes that complement beef stew in the best possible way.
10 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Beef Stew
The first side dish that goes well with beef stew is mashed potatoes. The creamy texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors of the beef stew. Another great alternative to mashed potatoes is roasted garlic mashed potatoes. The roasted garlic adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with beef stew.
Another classic side dish that complements beef stew is roasted root vegetables. The sweet and nutty flavors of roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add depth to the dish and are the perfect accompaniment to the savory flavors of beef stew. You can add a drizzle of honey and some fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for added flavor.
If you are looking for a lighter side dish, consider a simple salad. A side salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and crunch to the meal. You can also try a warm spinach salad with bacon and a sweet and tangy dressing, which pairs well with the rich flavors of beef stew.
Bread is another excellent side dish option to serve with beef stew. A warm and crusty French baguette or a rustic sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices of the stew.
If you want a different kind of carbohydrate to pair with beef stew, try risotto. The creamy and rich flavor of risotto complements the beef stew, making it a meal in itself. You can add roasted butternut squash or mushrooms to the risotto for added texture and flavor.
For a more exotic side dish, consider serving beef stew with couscous. The light and fluffy texture of couscous pairs well with the hearty flavors of beef stew. You can add some chopped dried apricots or raisins to the couscous for a touch of sweetness.
If you want to add some greens to your meal, try serving beef stew with sautéed kale. The slightly bitter flavor of kale complements the richness of the beef stew and adds a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals to your meal.
Best Vegetable Sides to Complement Beef Stew
When it comes to vegetables, roasted beets or Brussels sprouts are a perfect complement to beef stew. The caramelized and nutty flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts contrast beautifully with the savory and rich beef stew.
Baked squash or sweet potato with butter and brown sugar also work well with beef stew. The natural sweetness of the vegetables balances out the richness of the beef stew.
Green beans, asparagus, and broccoli are other light and healthy options to serve with beef stew. You can steam or roast them and add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Another great vegetable to serve with beef stew is carrots. Carrots add a natural sweetness to the dish and their bright orange color adds a pop of color to the plate. You can roast them alongside the beef stew or add them to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
The Perfect Bread to Pair with Your Beef Stew
Bread is one of the classic sides to serve with beef stew, and there are plenty of options to choose from. A crusty baguette or a sourdough bread with a nice chewy texture is perfect for soaking up the juices. Alternatively, you can serve a soft dinner roll or a fresh loaf of bread.
However, if you want to add a unique twist to your beef stew, try pairing it with a slice of Irish soda bread. The slightly sweet and nutty flavor of the bread complements the savory flavors of the stew perfectly. Plus, the dense texture of the bread holds up well against the hearty chunks of meat and vegetables in the stew. Give it a try and impress your dinner guests with this unexpected pairing!
5 Hearty Side Salads to Serve with Your Beef Stew
Salads are a perfect side dish for those who like to keep it light and healthy. Roasted beet salad with goat cheese and walnuts is a perfect accompaniment to beef stew. The sweet and earthy flavors of roasted beets harmonize well with the richness of the beef stew.
If you prefer a more classic salad, a Caesar salad with added protein like chicken or grilled shrimp is a great option. The creamy dressing and Parmesan cheese add a tangy taste that contrasts well with the beef stew’s umami flavor.
You can also try a Greek salad with feta cheese, olives and cucumber, or a Caprese salad with mozzarella cheese and fresh tomatoes for a lighter option that still adds freshness and flavor to beef stew.
For those who want a salad with a bit of crunch, a kale salad with apples and pecans is a great choice. The bitterness of the kale is balanced by the sweetness of the apples and the nuttiness of the pecans. This salad also adds a pop of color to your plate.
If you’re looking for a salad that’s a bit more filling, a potato salad with bacon and chives is a great option. The creaminess of the potatoes and the saltiness of the bacon complement the beef stew’s rich flavor. This salad is also a great way to use up any leftover potatoes you may have.
How to Choose the Right Wine to Complement Your Beef Stew
Pairing wine with beef stew can elevate the whole experience. Rich and full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah or Merlot are a perfect choice. They have a bold flavor that complements the hearty and savory notes of beef stew. The high tannin levels in these wines also help to cut through the richness of the beef stew.
If red wine is not your preference, you can always choose a dry white wine such as Chardonnay or a Riesling. These wines pair nicely with lighter beef stews that feature brighter flavors like tomato or lemon. A little bit of acid in the wine helps to counter the richness of the beef stew.
Another option to consider when pairing wine with beef stew is a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. This wine has a lighter body than Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, but still has enough tannins to complement the beef stew. Pinot Noir also has a fruity and earthy flavor that pairs well with the savory notes of the stew.
If you prefer a sweeter wine, you can try a red blend or a Zinfandel. These wines have a higher sugar content and pair well with beef stews that have a touch of sweetness, such as those made with carrots or sweet potatoes. The sweetness in the wine can also help to balance out any spiciness in the stew.
Easy and Quick Sides to Make with Your Beef Stew
If you’re short on time, there are still plenty of options for sides that are quick and easy to make. Roasted or steamed broccoli with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is a great, healthy side that complements beef stew without adding too many calories.
You can also opt for a quick rice pilaf or a simple mixed green salad. Another option is roasted potatoes with rosemary, which can be cooked in the oven while the beef stew simmers.
If you’re looking for something a little heartier, consider making some cornbread to go with your beef stew. Cornbread is easy to make and can be whipped up quickly while your stew is cooking. It’s also a great way to soak up all the delicious juices from your stew.
Traditional Sides that Go Well with Beef Stew
Some classic choices for sides that pair well with beef stew include mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and buttered green beans. These sides are popular for good reason: they’re delicious and help balance the richness of the beef stew.
Another great side to consider is a crusty bread, which can be used to soak up the flavorful broth of the beef stew. Additionally, a simple salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
If you’re looking for a more unique side dish, consider trying a creamy polenta or a cheesy gratin. These sides can add a rich and comforting element to the meal, while still complementing the flavors of the beef stew.
Vegetarian Sides that Pair Perfectly with Beef Stew
In case someone in your party is a vegetarian, you can still choose sides that complement beef stew. The classic side of mashed potatoes is an excellent option, and so are roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts and beets. You can also try a vegetarian risotto with mushrooms or spinach and Parmesan cheese for a creamy and satisfying side dish.
Another great vegetarian side dish to pair with beef stew is a hearty lentil soup. The earthy flavors of the lentils and vegetables in the soup complement the rich flavors of the beef stew. You can also serve a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing to balance out the heaviness of the stew. Adding some crusty bread or garlic bread to the meal will also make it more filling and satisfying for everyone.
Seasonal Side Dishes to Serve with Beef Stew
When choosing sides for beef stew, seasonal ingredients can add an extra touch of freshness. In the fall, roasted root vegetables like beets and sweet potatoes are a delicious option. During the winter months, hearty roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts and squash can make a warming accompaniment to beef stew. In the spring and summer, light, fresh salads with herbs and greens can add a refreshing touch to the meal.
Gluten-Free Sides for Those Who Love Beef Stew
For those on a gluten-free diet, there are still plenty of delicious options for sides to serve with beef stew. Roasted vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and winter squash are an excellent choice. A simple arugula salad with a balsamic vinaigrette or a roasted beet salad with goat cheese and walnuts are also great options.
Tips for Creating a Balanced Meal around Your Beef Stew
When planning your meal, it’s important to keep in mind that beef stew is already a hearty and filling dish. Try to include sides that add a variety of colors, flavors, and textures. For example, if your beef stew is rich and savory, balance it out with a light salad or some roasted vegetables that add sweetness and crunch.
Also, consider the portion sizes of your sides. It’s easy to overdo it, so keep in mind that a small serving of mashed potatoes or a few pieces of bread are enough to complement the beef stew without overstuffing yourself.
Creative Ways to Repurpose Leftover Beef Stew into New Dishes
If you have leftovers, there are many creative ways you can repurpose them into new meals. One option is to add some broth or water and turn it into a soup. You can also transform it into a shepherd’s pie by topping the stew with mashed potatoes and baking it until it’s golden brown and crispy on top. Another option is to use the leftover beef to make a delicious sandwich. Simply pile it high on some crusty bread and top it with your favorite condiments and vegetables.
Beef stew is a classic dish that can be elevated by choosing the right side dishes. From roasted root vegetables to green salads to crusty bread, the possibilities are endless. By following our suggestions and exploring new flavors, you can create a perfect meal that is hearty, delicious and balanced.