This recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy homestyle beef stew featuring tender beef, fluffy potatoes, and sweet corn. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend family gathering, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite. We'll cover everything from choosing the right cut of beef to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Let's dive in!
What Cut of Beef is Best for This Recipe?
Choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful results. For this thick and easy homestyle beef recipe, you'll want a cut that benefits from slow cooking. Excellent options include:
- Chuck Roast: A classic choice known for its rich flavor and ability to become incredibly tender with long, slow cooking.
- Beef Stew Meat: Pre-cut into smaller pieces, this option saves time on preparation but might require slightly less cooking time than a chuck roast.
- Pot Roast: Similar to chuck roast, but often slightly leaner. You may need to add a bit more fat to the pot for better browning and flavor.
Avoid using lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin, as these will become tough when slow-cooked.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Homestyle Beef with Potatoes and Corn?
The cooking time will depend on the cut of beef you choose and the cooking method. Generally, expect a cooking time of 3-4 hours in a slow cooker or 1.5-2 hours in a pressure cooker. For a traditional stovetop method, plan for 2-3 hours of simmering. Remember to check for doneness by easily piercing the beef with a fork; it should be fork-tender.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker, Pressure Cooker, or on the Stovetop?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferred cooking method.
Slow Cooker: Brown the beef as directed below, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Pressure Cooker: Brown the beef, then add all ingredients to your pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for 60-75 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 20 minutes.
Stovetop: Brown the beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Then, add the remaining ingredients, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
What are the Best Potatoes for this Recipe?
Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent choices for this recipe. Russets offer a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds provide a creamy, slightly buttery flavor. Cut the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
What Kind of Corn Should I Use?
Fresh corn on the cob, frozen corn kernels, or canned corn can all be used in this recipe. If using corn on the cob, cut the kernels off the cob before adding them to the stew.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! This recipe is easily customizable. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, peas, or green beans. Add them along with the potatoes during the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Recipe for Thick and Easy Homestyle Beef with Potatoes and Corn
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season beef cubes with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove beef and set aside.
- Add onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute.
- Return beef to the pot. Add potatoes, corn, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until beef is tender. (Adjust cooking time based on your chosen method – slow cooker, pressure cooker, or stovetop).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and easy homestyle beef with potatoes and corn! This hearty and flavorful meal is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
