Description

Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender beef simmered in a rich broth with red wine, carrots, potatoes, and aromatic herbs. Cooked slowly to deepen the flavors, this comforting stew is perfect for chilly evenings or themed parties. Served in hollowed-out bread bowls for a whimsical presentation, this meal satisfies both taste and imagination for all ages.

Ingredients

1 lb beef stew meat
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
3 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, cubed
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Hollowed-out bread bowls for serving (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf.
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Add the beef broth, carrots, and potatoes.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the meat is tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve in hollowed-out bread bowls for a spooky cauldron effect.

Notes

Substitute chicken for beef to make a lighter stew or use vegetable broth and mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Prepare the stew a day ahead for enhanced flavor, and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat gently on the stove. If your stew is too thin, simmer uncovered to thicken; if too thick, add more broth or water. Bread bowls can be swapped for rice or mashed potatoes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American