Stew beef is a classic comfort food that never gets old. Its tender and juicy meat that is deliciously seasoned with flavorful spices and vegetables is perfect for warming you up on those cold, dreary days. But, have you ever wondered what savory sides go well with your meaty bowl of stew? If so, you have come to the right place! This article will explore 10 delicious sides to serve with stew beef, the perfect wine pairings, how to choose the best cuts of beef for stew, and so much more!
10 Delicious Sides to Serve With Stew Beef
First and foremost, let’s dive into the classic sides that go hand-in-hand with stew beef. Mashed potatoes are an all-time favorite that complements the savory flavors perfectly. The soft and creamy texture pairs well with the rich and bold stew. If you’re looking for something with a bit more crunch, try roasted vegetables such as carrots, brussel sprouts, or parsnips. Their caramelized flavor gives the perfect balance of sweetness to the savory taste of the stew. Additionally, you can never go wrong with a crusty, fresh bread roll or a piece of garlic bread that can soak up all the delicious gravy.
But, let’s not forget about creamy and buttery polenta, which is a fantastic grain that pairs well with stew beef. Alternatively, if red meat isn’t your thing, a bowl of fluffy white rice, quinoa, or couscous can elevate your stew experience. Or, if you’re looking for something extra comforting, opt for creamy and cheesy mac and cheese.
Another great side to serve with stew beef is a fresh and crisp salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the stew and provide a refreshing contrast. You can also add some roasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Another option is a warm and hearty soup, such as tomato soup or butternut squash soup. The soup can be served as a starter or alongside the stew for a cozy and comforting meal. Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous, try making some homemade dumplings or biscuits to serve with the stew. The fluffy and buttery texture will complement the stew perfectly and make for a satisfying meal.
The Perfect Wine Pairings for Stew Beef
No hearty meal is complete without a glass of wine. Depending on your taste preference, either red or white wine will suffice. For fans of red wine, full-bodied options like Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec or Red Zinfandel are perfect complements to the strong flavors in the stew. On the other hand, white wine lovers should opt for something a bit heavier like Chardonnay or Viognier. These wines have notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasty oak that pair well with creamy sides that are a staple with stew beef, such as polenta or mashed potatoes.
Another great option for red wine lovers is Syrah/Shiraz. This wine has a bold flavor profile with notes of black pepper, blackberry, and smoked meat that can stand up to the richness of the stew. For those who prefer a lighter red wine, Pinot Noir is a good choice. It has a delicate flavor profile with notes of cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones that can complement the flavors of the stew without overpowering it.
If you’re looking for a white wine that is not too heavy, Sauvignon Blanc is a good option. It has a crisp, refreshing taste with notes of citrus and grassy undertones that can cut through the richness of the stew. Another good option is Riesling, which has a sweet taste with notes of apricot, honey, and floral undertones that can balance out the savory flavors of the stew.
How to Choose the Best Cuts of Beef for Stew
When making stew, not all cuts of beef are created equal. The best cuts for stewing are those that have a lot of connective tissue and collagen, such as chuck, brisket, shank, and sirloin. When these tougher cuts of meat are slow-cooked, the connective tissue melts into the broth and produces a rich and flavorful sauce. Additionally, these cuts tend to be less expensive and readily available in most grocery stores, which makes it the perfect meal option for those on a budget.
It’s important to note that when selecting your beef for stew, you should also consider the fat content. While some fat is necessary for flavor and tenderness, too much can result in a greasy and unappetizing dish. Look for cuts with a moderate amount of marbling, and trim any excess fat before cooking. This will ensure that your stew is flavorful and satisfying, without being overly heavy.
One-Pot Stew Beef Recipes to Try Tonight
If you’re looking to save on dishes and prepare your stew all in one pot, you’re in luck! One-pot stew beef recipes are the perfect solution. Simply brown the stew beef, add your desired vegetables and broth, and let it simmer for hours. As a result, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal that didn’t require a lot of effort or cleanup.
One of the best things about one-pot stew beef recipes is that they are incredibly versatile. You can use a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery, to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of broth, such as beef, chicken, or vegetable, to add even more depth to your stew.
Another benefit of one-pot stew beef recipes is that they are perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch of stew and portion it out for the week ahead. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook. Simply reheat the stew and serve it with some crusty bread for a quick and satisfying meal.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Sides to Serve With Stew Beef
For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free and dairy-free sides can be a daunting task. However, there are plenty of delicious options available! Sautéed green beans with garlic and olive oil, or roasted squash with maple syrup and thyme, are both great gluten-free options. Alternatively, vegan scalloped potatoes made with cashew cream or roasted cauliflower rice are the perfect dairy-free options.
Another great gluten-free and dairy-free side to serve with stew beef is a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables. Simply roast your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, and mix them with cooked quinoa. Add a dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley and basil for a fresh and flavorful side dish.
Tips for Making Your Stew Beef Extra Tender and Flavorful
Nothing is more disappointing than tough and dry stew beef. However, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you avoid these culinary blunders. Firstly, ensure that you are using the right cut of meat for stewing. As mentioned earlier, cuts with lots of collagen and connective tissue are the best options. Another tip is to marinate the beef with acidic ingredients like tomato paste or vinegar for a few hours before cooking. The acid helps to break down the connective tissue and tenderize the meat. Lastly, cook the stew on low and slow heat for optimal tenderness.
Another tip for making your stew beef extra tender and flavorful is to brown the meat before adding it to the stew. This step helps to develop a rich, caramelized flavor and also seals in the juices, resulting in more tender meat. To brown the meat, heat a small amount of oil in a pan over high heat and add the beef in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until browned on all sides, then transfer to the stew pot.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to add more depth of flavor to your stew. Some popular options include thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and paprika. You can also add vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your stew. With these tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying stew that will be sure to impress your family and friends.
Classic Comfort Food: Serving Stew Beef Over Mashed Potatoes
As mentioned earlier, mashed potatoes are the perfect side to serve with stew beef. As an added bonus, they are also the perfect vessel for a classic comfort food combination – serving the stew beef over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. This presentation not only looks impressive but also elevates the overall taste of the dish. The creamy mashed potatoes act as a neutral canvas that balances out the bold flavors of the stew beef sauce.
Another great way to enhance the flavor of this classic comfort food dish is to add some caramelized onions on top of the stew beef. The sweetness of the onions complements the savory flavors of the beef and adds a nice texture to the dish. To caramelize onions, simply slice them thinly and cook them in a pan with some butter or oil over low heat until they turn golden brown and soft. Sprinkle them on top of the stew beef and mashed potatoes before serving for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Stew Beef in Your Meals
If you have any leftover stew beef, don’t throw it away! There are plenty of creative ways to repurpose it into a new, delicious meal. One option is to make a hearty stew shepherd’s pie. Simply top the leftover stew beef with mashed potatoes and bake it in the oven until golden and crispy. Another option is to mix the stew beef into a breakfast hash with potatoes, onions, and eggs. Or, add it to a cheesy quesadilla for your next Mexican-inspired meal.
Hearty Soups and Salads That Complement Stew Beef Perfectly
Stew beef can also be a great addition to hearty soups and salads. For example, a beef and vegetable soup can incorporate the leftover stew beef into a light and refreshing broth-based dish. On the other hand, a warm roasted vegetable salad, tossed in balsamic vinegar, can be the perfect accompaniment to the hearty meatiness of the stew beef. These options offer light and refreshing variations to the traditional stew beef meal.
How to Make a Vegetarian Version of Stew Beef With Plant-Based Protein Alternatives
Vegetarians, don’t despair! You can still enjoy the savory flavors of stew beef and all its accompaniments – simply substitute a plant-based protein alternative like seitan or tempeh. These plant-based proteins have a texture and flavor that can emulate real meat, giving you all the savory goodness that stew beef has to offer. Additionally, a baked sweet potato or roasted root vegetables can be the perfect complement to a plant-based protein dish.
Low-Carb Sides That Are Great With Stew Beef for Keto Dieters
For those who are on a low-carb or keto diet, there are plenty of options to accompany the delicious stew beef. Firstly, try roasted butternut squash or crispy cauliflower bites for a healthy and low-carb alternative to the standard carb-heavy sides. Alternatively, roasted brussel sprouts with garlic and oil are fantastic low-carb options that are just as delicious as mashed potatoes!
In conclusion, stew beef is a classic dish that can be elevated with the right sides and wine pairings. Whether you prefer mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or dairy-free options, there are plenty of choices to complement the hearty and savory flavors of stew beef. Additionally, you can repurpose leftover stew beef to create new, delicious meals and incorporate it into salads or soups for a new twist on the classic dish. With these tips and tricks, you are sure to be a stew beef master in no time!