Hearty Beef, Carrot, and Peas Stew Recipe

If you’re seeking a comforting and nutritious stew bursting with flavor, look no further than this Middle Eastern-inspired Peas, Carrots, and Beef Stew. Reminiscent of the traditional Bazella w Riz, which translates to peas and rice, this hearty dish embodies the essence of comfort food. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a particular recipe in many Middle Eastern households. What sets this stew apart is its adaptability; while it features peas and carrots as the show’s stars, you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a special gathering, this stew will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.

Ingredients for Hearty Beef, Carrot, and Peas Stew

• Chuck beef: Provides a rich, savory flavor and hearty texture to the stew. I soaked the beef in a mixture of water and vinegar; it became tender and absorbed the tangy notes from the vinegar, enhancing its overall taste and tenderness.
• Olive oil: It serves as the cooking medium for browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
• Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the stew, providing a robust flavor base.
• Garlic: I prefer chopping the garlic roughly to release its aromatic flavors gradually during the long cooking process. This ensures that its essence infuses the stew slowly.
• Carrots: I recommend using fresh carrots for their crisp texture and sweet flavor. However, if you’re short on time or convenience is key, feel free to use frozen carrots as a convenient alternative. 
• Potatoes: while optional, they provide a hearty and comforting element to the stew, absorbing the flavors of the broth and spices while adding a creamy texture.
• Spices (7 spices, turmeric powder, coriander): Combine to create a warm and aromatic blend of flavors, adding depth, warmth, and complexity to the stew. The seven spices add a unique Middle Eastern flair, turmeric contributes vibrant color and earthy notes, and coriander offers a citrusy, floral aroma.
• Tomato sauce and tomato paste: Add richness, depth, and a hint of sweetness to the stew while contributing to its vibrant red color.
• Water or broth: Serve as the liquid base of the stew, infusing it with savory flavor and ensuring a luscious and well-rounded consistency.
• Frozen peas: Offer a burst of freshness and vibrant color to the stew, balancing out its rich and hearty flavors with their sweet, delicate taste.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Stew

• Soaking the Meat: Soak the beef cubes in water and vinegar for about 2 hours before cooking. This helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a more melt-in-your-mouth texture once cooked.
• Uniform Size: Aim for uniform sizes when cutting the beef into cubes. This ensures that the meat cooks evenly, preventing some pieces from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
• Simmering for Flavor: Allow the stew to simmer over low to medium heat for at least 45 minutes. This extended cooking time not only tenderizes the beef but also allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a rich and deeply flavorful stew.
• Adding Frozen Vegetables: If using frozen peas or any other frozen vegetables, add them to the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This prevents them from becoming mushy and retains their vibrant color and fresh flavor.
• Seasoning as You Go: Season the stew with salt and pepper at each cooking stage, tasting and adjusting as needed. This ensures a well-balanced and flavorful dish, with the seasoning evenly distributed throughout.
• Resting Before Serving: Once the stew is cooked, rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop further and meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, this hearty beef stew recipe pairs wonderfully with vermicelli rice, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. However, don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving options! This versatile stew also complements mashed potatoes, adding a creamy and comforting element to the meal. For a healthier twist, consider serving it with quinoa, which adds a nutty flavor and fluffy texture. Alternatively, couscous makes a light and fluffy accompaniment, absorbing the flavorful stew broth beautifully. You’ll surely enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal, whichever option you choose.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Peas, Carrots, and Beef Stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the stew for 2-3 months. When reheating, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and gently heat over medium-low heat until warmed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave, covering the dish with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to avoid splattering. Once heated thoroughly, serve and enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!