Hearty Classic Beef Stew

Instructions

1. Wash and peel all vegetables and pat dry before prepping. (Potato skins can either be left on or removed based on personal preference).
2. Heat olive oil, garlic, and mushrooms in a large (5 or 6-quart), high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until mushrooms start to release their liquid, stirring occasionally.
3. Working in batches if necessary, add beef to skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Transfer browned beef and mushroom mixture to a large bowl, and return empty skillet to the cooktop.
4. Deglaze skillet with 1 cup beef stock and the red wine over medium-high heat, using a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits. Boil liquid until reduced by one half before returning the beef-mushroom mixture to the skillet.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add 2 cups of beef broth and the bay leaf to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 1-1½ hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir beef mixture occasionally while simmering.
6. Remove lid and add carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, and fresh herbs. Stir to combine and add additional beef stock, if necessary, to reach desired consistency.
7. Continue simmering, uncovered, for another 20-25 minutes or until potatoes and carrots are tender, but not mushy. Remove from heat and discard bay leaf. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste. Spoon hot stew into individual serving bowls and serve immediately.