Smoked Paprika Garlic Beef Stew

This Smoked Paprika and Garlic Beef Stew wraps the house in an irresistible aroma and delivers perfectly tender beef with a deep savory kick. Over the years, it has become my answer to cold evenings and family gatherings#af, unfussy, soulful, and always a hit.

I remember making this for the first time after spotting smoked paprika in a tiny market abroad. The flavor wowed us, and it became our cold weather tradition almost overnight.

Ingredients

• Beef chuck or stewing beef cut into cubes: Using a marbled cut gives richness and ensures the beef softens beautifully after a long simmer Choose fresh bright red beef for best results
• Smoked paprika: This spice forms the backbone of the stew&s smoky flavor Try to find Spanish smoked paprika for the most authentic taste
• Sweet paprika: Balances the smokiness with warmth and subtle sweetness A high quality sweet paprika will add a lovely red color and complexity
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the beef and broth Use flaked salt and freshly ground pepper if possible
• Onions and garlic: Build a super aromatic base Yellow onions work best and look for plump firm garlic bulbs
• Carrots and celery: Traditional stew aromatics for sweetness and body Select firm carrots and crisp celery
• Potatoes: Provide heartiness and help thicken the stew Yukon golds or waxy potatoes keep their shape best
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and color Choose peppers with glossy skin and no blemishes
• Tomato paste: Intensifies flavor and helps create a rich sauce Opt for double concentrated paste if possible
• Beef stock and red wine: Both add deep savory notes Use a low sodium stock and a dry red wine or just more stock for an alcohol free version
• Bay leaf and dried thyme: Infuse subtle herbal flavor Use whole dried bay leaves and rub thyme between your fingers to release aroma
• Vegetable oil: For browning beef and sautéing veggies Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point
• Fresh parsley: Adds a bright finish at the end Flat leaf parsley works best for flavor and garnish

Instructions

Marinate the beef:

In a large bowl combine beef cubes with smoked paprika sweet paprika salt and black pepper. Toss well to evenly coat. Let sit for ten minutes. This allows the spices to begin flavoring the meat.

Brown the beef:

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy bottomed pot over medium high heat. Add beef in batches without crowding. Sear for two to three minutes per side until dark brown crust forms. Transfer seared beef to a plate. Browning the beef is crucial for rich flavor later on.

Sauté the aromatics:

Reduce heat to medium. Add the onions garlic carrots and celery. Cook for five minutes stirring occasionally until softened and starting to caramelize. Stir to scrape up any brown bits from the beef.

Build the sauce:

Add tomato paste to the pot. Stir well and let it cook for two minutes so it darkens and develops a slightly roasted flavor.

Combine and simmer:

Return the browned beef and any juices to the pot. Add potatoes bell pepper beef stock red wine bay leaf and dried thyme. Stir thoroughly to combine. Bring everything just to a gentle simmer.

Slow cook:

Reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight fitting lid. Let the stew cook gently for about two hours stirring occasionally. The beef will become meltingly tender and the vegetables soft and fragrant.

Finish and adjust seasoning:

Remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you like a brighter flavor splash in a bit of sherry vinegar right at the end.

Serve:

Ladle hot stew into bowls. Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy immediately.

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When I first sourced really good smoked paprika for this stew the entire kitchen transformed for hours and now even the kids associate that scent with comfort and togetherness. I also adore the way fresh parsley brightens up the whole dish just before serving. It always feels like the finishing touch from my grandmother&s kitchen.

Storage Tips

This stew tastes even better the next day so do not hesitate to make it ahead. Cool the stew completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to freeze it skip the parsley garnish and store the stew in freezer safe portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of water or stock if needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

No red wine or prefer not to use it Just add extra beef stock and a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. If you are out of smoked paprika use chipotle powder for heat or extra sweet paprika for a milder version. Swap out potatoes for parsnips or sweet potatoes if that is what you have.

Serving Suggestions

Crusty gluten free bread makes a fantastic companion for soaking up the smoky broth. You can also serve this stew over mashed potatoes buttered noodles or even polenta for a real European twist. A simple green salad on the side keeps things fresh.

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This beef stew never fails to bring everyone to the table looking for seconds. The smoky depth and colorful vegetables make every bowl as comforting as the first.

Recipe FAQs

→ How does smoked paprika enhance the dish?

Smoked paprika imparts a deep, smoky aroma and subtle heat, complementing the beef and enhancing overall depth.

→ Is red wine necessary in the preparation?

Red wine adds rich flavor and tenderizes the beef, but you may use extra stock if avoiding alcohol.

→ What can be served alongside this main course?

Crusty bread, buttered noodles, or mashed potatoes are excellent companions for soaking up the sauce.

→ How do I ensure the beef is tender?

Use a slow simmer over low heat and allow enough time for the beef to soften until fork-tender.

→ Can leftovers be stored and reheated?

Yes, chilled leftovers develop enhanced flavor and can be gently reheated on the stovetop or in a microwave.

→ What substitutions can be made for dietary needs?

Swap red wine for stock, and ensure gluten-free ingredients if needed. Stew is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as listed.