Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot in batches. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In the same pot, add the diced onions and sauté until they are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Stew
- Return the beef to the pot and stir in the tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to coat the beef.
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir everything together.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Step 4: Thicken the Stew
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with cold water to create a slurry.
- Gradually add the slurry to the stew, stirring constantly until the stew thickens. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Bread Bowls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the tops off the sourdough loaves and carefully hollow out the inside, leaving about a 1-inch thick shell. You can save the bread you remove for dipping later.
- Optional: Brush the inside of the bread bowls with melted butter for extra flavor and crispiness.
- Place the bread bowls on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, just until they are slightly crisp and warm.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Ladle the hot beef stew into each bread bowl.
- Serve immediately with the tops of the bread bowls on the side, perfect for dipping.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Beef: Opt for well-marbled beef chuck or stewing meat for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Let it Simmer: The longer the stew simmers, the more the flavors will develop. Don’t rush the process.
- Customize Your Stew: Add peas, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the stew if you like.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad pairs well with the rich stew.
- Extra Bread for Dipping: Keep the extra bread pieces from hollowing out the bowls on hand for dipping.
Final Thoughts:
Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl is the ultimate comfort food, combining the warmth of a hearty stew with the rustic charm of a crusty bread bowl. This meal is perfect for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or any occasion where comfort food is on the menu. Enjoy the process of making it as much as you’ll enjoy eating it!