Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl
This cozy comfort dish features tender chunks of beef and hearty vegetables slowly simmered in a rich, savory broth, then served in a hollowed-out crusty bread bowl that soaks up every bit of flavor. It’s a rustic, satisfying meal that feels both hearty and homemade, perfect for cold evenings or family-style dinners.
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Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl
Ingredients (Beef Stew)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Stewing beef, cut into cubes | 1½ lb (680 g) |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp |
| Large onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Carrots, peeled and sliced | 3 |
| Potatoes, peeled and diced | 3 |
| Celery stalks, chopped | 2 |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Beef broth | 4 cups |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tsp |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Dried rosemary | 1 tsp |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | For garnish |
Ingredients (Bread Bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Round bread loaves (sourdough or Italian) | 4 |
| Butter (optional, for brushing) | As needed |
How to Make Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef
Season the cubed beef with salt and pepper, then toss it with flour until lightly coated. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Stew Base
Return the beef to the pot and add carrots, potatoes, celery, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir everything together well.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the stew has thickened.
Step 5: Add Peas
About 10 minutes before finishing, stir in the frozen peas. Cook until heated through. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed.
Bread Bowls
Step 6: Prepare the Bread
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut a circular opening in the top of each loaf and remove the inner bread, leaving a sturdy shell about ½ inch thick.
Step 7: Toast (Optional)
Brush the inside lightly with butter and bake for 5–7 minutes until slightly crisp.
To Serve
Step 8: Assemble
Ladle the hot stew into each bread bowl and top with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm and hearty.
