Italian Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 1-½ lbs. beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1-½ lbs. peeled potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cups fresh string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1-6 oz. can tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups water
Instructions
- Directions:Cut beef into 2-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil on medium-high. Working in small batches, sear the beef. Remove beef and turn down the heat to medium. Add olive oil, onions, garlic, bay leaves, and salt and pepper. Cook until onions are translucent, 3-5 minutes. Return beef to pot, add tomato paste, water, and oregano. Salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally. Add string beans, and simmer 15 minutes more. Add potatoes, and simmer 20 minutes, or until potatoes are cooked through. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve with crusty Italian bread. Makes 6 servings.