Rocky Mountain Stew

Rocky Mountain Stew is a hearty, rustic dish that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food. Originating from the rugged landscapes of the Rockies, this stew is a flavorful blend of tender beef, earthy vegetables, and robust seasonings. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out, making it ideal for cold nights or whenever you need something wholesome and satisfying. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, savory broth that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cold water

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes (with their juice), thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and cold water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the stew to thicken the broth. Continue to cook, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve hot, preferably with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Rocky Mountain Stew, a dish that brings a taste of the great outdoors to your table!