Easy Homemade Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs of beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of beef broth
• 1 cup of red wine (optional)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
• 2 cups of diced carrots
• 2 cups of diced potatoes
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the beef cubes and toss to coat evenly.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
4. Add the beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
6. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
7. Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, red wine (if using), diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, peas, bay leaves, and thyme.
8. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
9. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
10. Remove the bay leaves and discard.
11. Serve the stew hot, with crusty bread on the side.