French Country Beef Stew Recipe

How to Make French Country Beef Stew

1. In a large plastic bag, combine 2 lbs beef stew meat cut into 1-inch cubes and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large 6-quart pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Set aside.
3. Add 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; and 3 cloves garlic, minced to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1 bay leaf, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in 4 cups beef broth and 1 cup red wine (optional).
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
7. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is very tender.
8. Stir in 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard.
9. Remove the bay leaf. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with warm crusty French bread.