Stew meat is a budget-friendly, versatile cut that becomes fall-apart tender when cooked slowly. Whether you’re making classic beef stew, spicy chili, or international slow-cooked dishes, stew meat is perfect for hearty, comforting meals.
In this guide, we’ll share the best stew meat recipes, cooking tips, and variations to help you make the most of this delicious cut!
1. Classic Beef Stew
A rich, hearty, and comforting dish packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a savory broth.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs stew meat (beef chuck or round)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 3 carrots (sliced)
- 3 potatoes (cubed)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
- Sear the meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the stew meat in batches, then set aside.
- Sauté the veggies: Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Deglaze: Pour in red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the pot.
- Simmer: Add beef broth, tomato paste, and seasonings. Return meat to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Slow cook: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until meat is fork-tender.
- Add vegetables: Stir in potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 30 minutes until veggies are soft.
- Serve: Remove bay leaves and enjoy with crusty bread!
👉 Tip: For extra flavor, cook the stew low and slow for 3+ hours.
2. Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A set-it-and-forget-it version of classic beef stew, perfect for busy days!
Instructions:
- Follow the classic beef stew recipe, but place all ingredients in a slow cooker.
- Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
👉 Tip: Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) in the last 30 minutes for a thicker broth.
3. Spicy Mexican Beef Stew (Carne Guisada)
A bold and flavorful Mexican-style stew with rich spices and tender beef.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs stew meat
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 jalapeño (chopped, optional for spice)
Instructions:
- Brown the beef in a pot, then remove.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and jalapeño until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, and seasonings.
- Return beef to the pot and simmer for 2 hours until tender.
- Serve with rice or warm tortillas!
👉 Tip: Add potatoes or bell peppers for extra heartiness.
4. Asian-Inspired Beef Stew
A savory and slightly sweet stew with soy sauce, ginger, and star anise.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs stew meat
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch ginger (sliced)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 star anise pod
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 carrot (chopped)
- 1 potato (cubed)
Instructions:
- Brown the meat, then remove from the pot.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger.
- Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and beef broth.
- Return meat to the pot with star anise and cinnamon. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Add carrots and potatoes, cooking until tender.
👉 Tip: Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a comforting meal.
5. Guinness Beef Stew
A rich Irish-style stew with deep flavors from Guinness beer.
Instructions:
- Follow the classic beef stew recipe, but replace red wine with 1 cup Guinness beer.
- Add 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for extra umami.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or Irish soda bread!
👉 Tip: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen!
6. Keto & Low-Carb Beef Stew
A low-carb alternative without potatoes or flour.
Ingredient Swaps:
- Use turnips or cauliflower instead of potatoes.
- Thicken with xanthan gum instead of cornstarch.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal!
Tips for Cooking the Best Stew Meat
✅ Use the right cut: Chuck roast, round roast, or brisket work best for stew meat.
✅ Brown the meat first: Searing creates a rich, deep flavor.
✅ Cook it low and slow: Simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours to break down the tough fibers.
✅ Let it rest: Stew tastes better after sitting for a few minutes (or even overnight!).
✅ Add acidity: A splash of red wine, vinegar, or tomatoes enhances the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of beef is best for stew?
- Chuck roast: Most flavorful and tender.
- Round roast: Leaner but still works well.
- Brisket: Adds a rich, meaty texture.
Can I make stew ahead of time?
Yes! Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Can I freeze beef stew?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Stew meat is a versatile ingredient that transforms into flavorful, tender meals when cooked properly. Whether you love classic beef stew, spicy Mexican guisada, or rich Guinness stew, there’s a recipe for everyone!