Beef and ale stew with cheesy croutons

Delicious Beef and Ale Stew with Cheesy Croutons Recipe

This flavorful beef and ale stew with cheesy croutons is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for cold winter nights. The tender beef chunks and rich ale broth combine with the cheesy croutons to create a comforting and delicious meal. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete and filling dinner.

Nutritional Benefits

1. Protein: The beef in this stew is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
2. Iron: Beef is also high in iron, a mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout the body and supports healthy red blood cells.
3. Vitamin B12: Another nutrient found in beef, vitamin B12 is important for maintaining healthy nerve cells and producing DNA.
4. Fiber: The vegetables in this stew, such as carrots and potatoes, provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
5. Antioxidants: Onions and garlic, both used in this recipe, are rich in antioxidants that help protect the body against damage from harmful free radicals.

Ingredients

1. 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into chunks
2. 1 onion, chopped
3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
4. 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
5. 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
6. 1 cup ale or dark beer
7. 2 cups beef broth
8. 2 tablespoons tomato paste
9. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
10. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
11. 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
12. Salt and pepper to taste
13. 2 tablespoons olive oil
14. For the cheesy croutons:
15. 4 slices bread, cubed
16. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Processing Steps

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Step 3: Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Step 4: Pour in the ale or dark beer and beef broth. Return the browned beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Step 5: Cover the pot and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have developed.
6. Step 6: Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
7. Step 7: Bake the cheesy croutons for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Step 8: Serve the beef and ale stew hot, topped with the cheesy croutons.

Tips and Recommendations

- To save time, you can use pre-cut stew meat from your local grocery store.
- For a richer flavor, marinate the beef in the ale or dark beer for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or peas to the stew for added variety.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
- When serving, garnish the stew with fresh parsley or thyme for an extra pop of flavor.