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Lentils with Dumplings

Spezzatino di Manzo (Italian Beef Stew)

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A rustic and comforting Italian beef stew made with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs slowly simmered in a rich tomato and broth sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners and even better the next day.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1.5 inch cubes
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced into thick rounds
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat a heavy bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Toss the beef cubes with salt, black pepper, and flour until evenly coated.
  3. Add olive oil to the pot and brown the beef in batches until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  5. Add minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for about 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
  6. Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
  7. Bring to a gentle simmer, partially cover, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  8. Add the potatoes during the last 40 minutes of cooking and continue simmering until tender.
  9. Remove bay leaves and herb stems. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • For deeper flavor, brown the beef thoroughly without overcrowding the pot.
  • If the stew needs thickening, simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes.
  • This dish tastes even better the next day after the flavors have developed.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg