Winter Wonderland Stew

When the weather turns cold and you crave something hearty and comforting, Winter Wonderland Stew is the perfect dish. Packed with tender chunks of beef (or lamb), seasonal vegetables, and rich broth, this stew offers a satisfying and cozy experience. With just a few simple ingredients and the option to make it ahead or in the slow cooker, it’s perfect for chilly days when you need a warm, hearty meal.

This stew is both flavorful and versatile—packed with root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and butternut squash that bring sweetness and depth, balanced by savory herbs and a splash of red wine. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this Winter Wonderland Stew will fill your kitchen with incredible aromas and leave everyone feeling content.

Ingredients

For the stew:

1 1/2 lbs (680 g) beef stew meat or boneless lamb, cut into bite-sized chunks

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

2 medium parsnips, peeled and sliced (optional, for extra sweetness)

2 medium potatoes, diced

1 cup (150 g) butternut squash, diced

1/2 cup (120 ml) frozen peas (optional, for garnish)

1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes

4 cups (960 ml) beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)

1 cup (240 ml) red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp cornstarch or flour, mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Meat

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the stew meat with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and butternut squash to the pot. Stir and cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to lightly caramelize and develop flavor.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the seared meat to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The meat should be tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in the cornstarch or flour slurry during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, allowing the stew to thicken to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Add Final Touches

Just before serving, stir in the frozen peas (if using) for a pop of color. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Winter Wonderland Stew with some crusty bread for dipping, or opt for buttery biscuits for a true comfort food experience. You could also serve it over a bed of mashed potatoes for an extra layer of richness. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan for added flavor.

Tips for the Best Winter Wonderland Stew

Make It Ahead: Stews often taste even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. You can make this stew in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The leftovers are perfect for meal prep!

Substitutions: If you prefer a different protein, feel free to swap out the beef or lamb for chicken, turkey, or a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or lentils for a heartier, plant-based option.

Slow Cooker Option: You can also make this stew in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except the thickener and peas) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Add the peas and thickener during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Enjoy Your Winter Wonderland Stew

This Winter Wonderland Stew is a true bowl of comfort, perfect for warming you up on cold winter nights. Packed with flavor, tender meat, and plenty of nutritious vegetables, it’s a dish that brings joy to the table and makes your house smell amazing as it simmers away.

Enjoy your cozy meal, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones—they’ll be asking for seconds! ❄️🍲

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