Nigerian-Style Beef Stew: A Quick and Easy Recipe

Beef stew is one of those meals that brings comfort and warmth to any table. It’s a simple, hearty dish made with tender pieces of beef and vegetables, slowly cooked in a rich broth. This stew is perfect for Nigerian homes, especially when you want something filling and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a special occasion, beef stew is sure to satisfy everyone.

In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make a delicious beef stew using everyday ingredients you can easily find in local markets. Let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed for Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to make a simple and delicious beef stew:

2 lbs (900g) beef (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for browning the beef)
1 large onion, chopped
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups beef broth (or water)
1 cup water (for adjusting the thickness of the stew)
3 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2 celery stalks, chopped (optional)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few fresh sprigs)
1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients can be easily found in local markets, and you can adjust them to suit your taste or what you have at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef

Start by cutting the beef into bite-sized cubes. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium-high heat.
Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Let the beef brown on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes per batch.
Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly golden.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Broth

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes to let the flavors mix well with the onions and garlic.
Pour in the beef broth (or water if you don’t have broth), and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This adds extra flavor to the stew.

Step 4: Return the Beef and Simmer

Add the browned beef back into the pot.
Toss in the bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Stir everything together and bring the stew to a boil.
Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 1 hour to allow the beef to become tender.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

After the beef has simmered for 1 hour, add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and celery (if using).
Stir well, cover the pot again, and let the stew simmer for another 30-40 minutes until the vegetables and beef are soft and fully cooked.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you like your stew thicker, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with a small amount of cold water to make a smooth paste (this is called a slurry).
Stir the slurry into the stew and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken up. If the stew is too thick, you can add a bit more water to get your desired consistency.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Remove the bay leaf and herb sprigs (if you used fresh herbs).
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for extra color and flavor.

Enjoy your hearty beef stew with some rice, bread, or yam on the side!

Tips for Making the Perfect Beef Stew

Use the Right Cut of Beef: For the best flavor and texture, use beef chuck or stew beef. These cuts are tougher but become tender when cooked slowly, making them perfect for stew.
Brown the Beef First: Don’t skip browning the beef. It adds a deep, rich flavor to the stew. Make sure to brown the meat in batches so it doesn’t steam in the pot.
Simmer Low and Slow: Beef stew is best when cooked slowly over low heat. This allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to blend well. Rushing the process will result in tougher meat.
Add Vegetables at the Right Time: Vegetables like potatoes and carrots don’t need as much time to cook as the beef, so add them after the beef has been simmering for a while. This way, they stay firm and don’t get too mushy.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, always taste your stew and adjust the salt, pepper, or other spices to your preference. You can even add a bit of your favorite Nigerian spices for extra flavor.
Make It Ahead of Time: Stews often taste better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop. If you can, make your beef stew in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or sweet potatoes. You can also add Nigerian spices like curry or paprika for a unique twist.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When browning the beef, cook it in small batches. If the beef pieces are too close together, they will steam instead of brown, which can affect the flavor.
Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, use a flour or cornstarch slurry, but remember to add it slowly and stir well to avoid lumps.
Serving Suggestions: Beef stew can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, yam, plantain, or even bread. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with many Nigerian staples.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure your beef stew turns out delicious every time!

Conclusion

Beef stew is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a hearty dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a regular family meal, this stew is packed with flavor and perfect for any day. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let us know how your stew turns out in the comments!