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Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew

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Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew is a rich and rustic dish full of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and deeply savory broth. Perfect for chilly nights or Halloween gatherings, this stew feels like a cozy spell in a bowl.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 3 potatoes, cubed
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, coating the vegetables.
  4. Return beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir to combine.
  5. Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using), then add Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender.
  7. If desired, whisk cornstarch with a little water and stir into the stew to thicken. Simmer for a few more minutes.
  8. Remove bay leaves, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Add mushrooms or sweet potatoes for variation.
  • For a richer flavor, add pearl onions or a dash of balsamic vinegar.
  • Smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can be used for added warmth.
  • Thicken naturally by mashing some of the potatoes or blending part of the stew.
  • Reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

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