Discover the Perfect Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew Recipe Today!

As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a comforting, hearty meal to warm you up. Enter the Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew – a delightful marriage of tender beef, seasonal veggies, and the tantalizing flavors of apple cider. Served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is the embodiment of autumn’s cozy charm.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 cups apple cider
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 4 cups mashed potatoes, for serving

Cooking Instructions for Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew

Let’s get started on this Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew that’s sure to become a new family favorite!

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables have softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the potatoes, apple cider, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.

Thicken the Stew

Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the stew has thickened. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew over a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes. Savor the comforting flavors and the perfect pairing of tender beef, tangy cider, and fluffy potatoes.

The Benefits of Using Apple Cider in Cooking

Apple cider is the star ingredient in this Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew, and for good reason. Not only does it add a delightful, slightly sweet and tangy flavor to the dish, but it also offers some health benefits. Apple cider is rich in antioxidants and contains vitamins and minerals that can support a healthy immune system. Unlike wine or broth, apple cider brings a unique depth of flavor that complements the beef and vegetables perfectly.

Pairing Suggestions for Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew

This hearty Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with a crusty bread, such as a rustic sourdough or garlic-infused baguette, to soak up the flavorful broth. A fresh, crisp salad like a kale and apple slaw or a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also make an excellent side dish. And for those who love to indulge, a glass of rich, bold red wine or a seasonal cider would be the perfect beverage pairing.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Beef Bourguignon
• Hearty Vegetable Stew
• Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put apple cider in beef stew?

Absolutely! Apple cider is a fantastic addition to beef stew, as it adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a slightly sweet, tangy element that complements the savory beef and vegetables. The Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew recipe showcases how well these flavors work together.

Can you eat beef stew with mashed potatoes?

Yes, beef stew and mashed potatoes make an excellent pairing. The creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for the rich, flavorful Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew. The contrast of textures and the way the stew’s juices soak into the potatoes creates a truly comforting and satisfying meal.

What not to put in beef stew?

When making beef stew, it’s best to avoid adding ingredients that can overpower or clash with the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables. Ingredients to generally avoid include:

• Strongly flavored herbs or spices (e.g., rosemary, fennel, star anise)
• Acidic ingredients in excess (e.g., tomatoes, wine, vinegar)
• Sweet or sugary elements (e.g., honey, maple syrup, brown sugar)
• Dairy products that can curdle (e.g., milk, heavy cream)

The key is to let the beef, vegetables, and complementary flavors like apple cider shine in the Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew.

What is the one ingredient upgrade for better beef stew?

If there’s one ingredient that can truly elevate a beef stew, it’s the addition of apple cider. The Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew recipe showcases how this simple yet transformative ingredient can add a wonderful depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory beef and vegetables. Swapping out broth or wine for apple cider is a game-changer that takes this classic dish to new heights of deliciousness.

Conclusion

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, there’s no better time to indulge in the comforting, autumnal flavors of the Fall Apple Cider Beef Stew. This hearty, flavorful dish is a celebration of the season, blending tender beef, seasonal vegetables, and the irresistible taste of apple cider. Served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that will warm your soul and transport you to the cozy embrace of fall. So gather your loved ones, ladle up a steaming bowl, and savor the delicious harmony of this quintessential autumn dish.

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