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Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew

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Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew is a hearty and spooky twist on classic beef stew, perfect for Halloween or cold-weather comfort food. Loaded with tender beef, root vegetables, and a savory broth, this cozy one-pot meal is rich, flavorful, and spellbindingly delicious.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop / Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs stewing beef (like chuck roast), cut into chunks
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch or flour (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Season beef with salt and pepper, then brown in batches. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth.
  5. Return beef to the pot. Add remaining broth, potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, until beef is tender.
  7. (Optional) Mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into stew during the last 15 minutes for a thicker consistency.
  8. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Add mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips for extra depth.
  • Use purple carrots or pearl onions for a Halloween twist.
  • To make gluten-free, use cornstarch and gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
  • Can be made in a slow cooker or pressure cooker for convenience.
  • Tastes even better the next day!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/witchs-cauldron-beef-stew/