Winter Warmers: Hearty Grass-Fed Beef Stew Recipes

When the cold weather sets in, there’s nothing better than a warm, comforting bowl of stew to help you feel cosy. Grass-fed beef stew is the ideal winter dish – full of flavour, nutritious, and perfect for keeping you satisfied on chilly days. Whether you’re cooking for the family, prepping for the week ahead, or simply craving something hearty, these beef stew recipes made with grass-fed beef are sure to hit the spot.

At Gingin Beef, we provide premium grass-fed beef that’s perfect for slow cooking, making these hearty grass-fed meals ideal for your next winter dish. In this blog, we’ll share some of our favourite winter beef dishes, complete with tips and variations for the perfect stew.

Why Choose Grass-Fed Beef for Stews?

Grass-fed beef is perfect for stews because its lean, hearty texture holds up well during slow cooking, creating rich, flavourful dishes.

The Rich Flavour of Grass-Fed Beef

Grass-fed beef has a distinct, robust flavour that stands out in stews, soups, and other slow-cooked meals. This is due to the way the cattle are raised on natural grass pastures, which contributes to the meat’s unique taste. Grass-fed beef also tends to be leaner than grain-fed beef, which makes it ideal for long, slow cooking as it absorbs flavours from the other ingredients without becoming overly greasy.

Health Benefits of Grass-Fed Beef

Besides its rich flavour, grass-fed beef offers additional nutritional benefits, making it an even better choice for your hearty winter meals. It’s higher in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants compared to conventional beef. It’s also a leaner protein, which makes it a healthier option for stews and other dishes where it can simmer in its own juices.

Classic Beef Stew with Grass-Fed Beef

This traditional beef stew is the perfect way to enjoy the full flavour of grass-fed beef. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a family favourite.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg grass-fed beef stew meat, cut into cubes

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced

• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavour)

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tsp dried thyme

• 2 tsp rosemary

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the grass-fed beef cubes on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened.

3. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Add the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.

4. Return the beef to the pot and add the potatoes and carrots.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

6. Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

This classic recipe can easily be adjusted to include your favourite root vegetables or herbs. It’s the perfect dish to cook up and enjoy throughout the winter season.

Beef and Barley Stew: A Hearty Twist

For a heartier version of beef stew, try adding barley. Barley is a great addition because it absorbs the flavours of the stew and adds a pleasant, chewy texture to each bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg grass-fed beef stew meat, cut into cubes

• 1 cup barley

• 4 carrots, peeled and diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups beef broth

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 2 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and brown the grass-fed beef on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened.

3. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, paprika, and barley. Add the beef broth and bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, or until the barley is tender and the beef is cooked through.

5. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This beef and barley stew is a filling and nutritious option for those looking to add some whole grains to their diet while still enjoying the classic flavours of grass-fed beef.

Slow Cooker Grass-Fed Beef Stew

If you prefer the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is for you. Let your grass-fed beef stew cook slowly throughout the day while you go about your tasks. The result is a tender, flavourful meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg grass-fed beef stew meat

• 4 large potatoes, diced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 2 onions, chopped

• 1 cup peas

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 2 tsp dried thyme

• 2 tsp rosemary

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the grass-fed beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, peas, and beef broth to the slow cooker.

2. Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

4. Serve warm and enjoy.

Slow cooking grass-fed beef allows the flavours to develop over time, resulting in a rich and hearty stew that’s perfect for winter.

Adding Extra Flavour to Your Beef Stews

While the basics of a good beef stew are simple, there are plenty of ways to enhance the flavour of your winter beef dishes. Here are some additional tips to elevate your hearty grass-fed meals:

1. Use Red Wine for Depth

Adding red wine to your stew brings a deep, rich flavour that pairs beautifully with grass-fed beef. It adds acidity, which helps balance the richness of the meat.

2. Experiment with Spices

Spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and bay leaves can transform a basic stew into something more complex. Adding a pinch of chili flakes or freshly cracked black pepper can also add warmth and a bit of heat.

3. Include Root Vegetables

Adding parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes to your stew will add variety and extra flavour. These root vegetables absorb the rich beef broth and contribute their natural sweetness to the dish.

4. Top with Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary make a great garnish for your stew. They add a burst of colour and fresh flavour that complements the richness of the beef.

Conclusion: Perfect Your Grass-Fed Beef Stews This Winter

There’s no better way to warm up during the colder months than with a hearty grass-fed beef stew. Whether you prefer a classic beef stew, a beef and barley twist, or the convenience of slow cooking, these recipes are sure to satisfy your hunger and keep you cosy all winter long.

If you’re looking for premium grass-fed beef to make your next stew, visit Gingin Beef today. Our high-quality, ethically sourced beef is perfect for these hearty winter beef dishes. For more information or to place an order, visit our contact page.

FAQs

1. Can I use any cut of grass-fed beef for stew?
   The best cuts for stew are those with more connective tissue, such as chuck, shank, or stew meat. These cuts become tender and flavourful when slow-cooked.
2. Can I make these stews in a slow cooker?
   Yes, all of these recipes can be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply follow the instructions and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
3. How long should I cook grass-fed beef stew?
   Grass-fed beef stew should cook for 1.5–2 hours on the stovetop or 6-8 hours in the slow cooker, depending on the cut and desired tenderness.
4. How can I add extra flavour to my beef stew?
   Use red wine, spices, and root vegetables to enhance the flavour of your grass-fed beef stew. Fresh herbs can also add a fresh burst of flavour when served.
5. Can I freeze leftover stew?
   Yes, beef stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before storing in airtight containers.