2 lbs stew beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
The Vegetable Medley:
4 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen corn
The Rich Braising Liquid:
4 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste
The Amish Touch:
1 tablespoon brown sugar (their secret for balance!)
1 teaspoon paprika
👩‍🍳 Your Simple Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Pat beef dry and toss with flour, salt, and pepper.
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Brown beef in batches until deeply colored on all sides. Don’t overcrowd—this builds flavor!
Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
Step 3: The Slow Simmer
Return beef to the pot and add carrots, potatoes, celery, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, brown sugar, and paprika.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until beef is fork-tender.
Step 4: The Final Touch
During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add frozen peas and corn.
Remove bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 5: Serve with Love
Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread for dipping, or over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for an extra-hearty meal.
🌟 5 Secrets to Amish Cooking Perfection
BROWN, DON’T STEAM: Proper browning creates deep, rich flavor foundations
LOW AND SLOW: Gentle simmering transforms tough cuts into tender perfection
BALANCE SWEET AND SAVORY: The touch of brown sugar is traditional Amish wisdom
USE WHAT YOU HAVE: This recipe welcomes substitutions—use what’s in your pantry
DON’T RUSH THE PROCESS: Good food takes time, and every minute is worth it
🍽️ Serving Suggestions That Warm the Soul
TRADITIONAL STYLE: In deep bowls with homemade bread for dipping
