Beef Stew and Dumplings

Nothing says cozy comfort quite like a steaming bowl of Beef Stew and Dumplings. Tender chunks of beef simmered slowly in a rich, savory gravy with vegetables, topped with soft, fluffy dumplings that soak up all that delicious flavor, this dish is the definition of hearty home cooking. Perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or Sunday comfort meals, it’s a timeless classic that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s warm, filling, and deeply satisfying. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after simmering, while the dumplings add that perfect comforting texture on top. It’s an all-in-one meal packed with protein, veggies, and soul-soothing flavor.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (1 generous bowl):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Iron: 25% DV
• Vitamin A: 80% DV

Time Taken

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the stew:

• 1½ lbs (700g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, or use extra broth)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end)

For the dumplings:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 tbsp cold butter, cubed
• ½ cup milk (plus extra if needed)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste, and cook for another minute.
3. Build the stew: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in broth, wine, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
4. Prepare the dumplings: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Stir in milk until a soft dough forms.
5. Add dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dough on top of the simmering stew (do not stir them in). Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, until dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
6. Finish: Add peas and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

You Must Know

Do not lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking—steam is crucial for them to rise properly and stay fluffy.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. You can also freeze the stew (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Beef: Use lamb, chicken thighs, or mushrooms for variation.
• Wine: Replace with extra broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Flour: Use whole wheat or gluten-free all-purpose flour for the dumplings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes for an extra comforting touch. A green salad or roasted veggies pair beautifully to balance the richness.

Cultural and Historical Context

Beef stew with dumplings has deep roots in European cuisine, particularly British and Irish cooking. It was originally made as a peasant dish, using inexpensive cuts of beef and simple flour dumplings to create a hearty, filling meal. Over time, it’s become a beloved family favorite across many cultures.

Seasonal Adaptations

• Winter: Add root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or potatoes.
• Summer: Make a lighter version with lean beef and fresh herbs.

Success Stories

Many home cooks call this recipe their ultimate cold-weather comfort food. Families love it for its rich, savory flavor and the joy of those soft dumplings soaking in the stew’s gravy.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Make the stew ahead and freeze it before adding dumplings. When ready to serve, reheat the stew, prepare fresh dumpling dough, and cook them directly on top.

Pro Tips

• Browning the beef deeply adds incredible flavor.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even cooking.
• Add a splash of soy sauce for extra umami richness.

Chef’s Special Tips

For gourmet flavor, stir a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a touch of balsamic vinegar into the stew before serving. You can also replace the milk in the dumplings with buttermilk for extra tenderness.

Conclusion

Beef Stew and Dumplings is comfort food at its best; hearty, flavorful, and made with love. Each bite delivers tender beef, rich gravy, and soft dumplings that make every spoonful feel like a hug in a bowl. Warm up your kitchen and your heart with this classic Beef Stew and Dumplings recipe. Try it this week, share it with family, and experience why this dish has stood the test of time as a true home-cooked favorite.

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