A warm and comforting bowl of beef stew is the perfect dish for a cold evening, and adding herbs can enhance its flavor profile even more.
But what herbs should you use? Here are some options to consider:
Thyme
Thyme is an essential herb for any beef stew recipe. Its earthy and savory flavor pairs perfectly with beef, making it a popular choice in stews, soups, and roasts.
Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or 1-2 teaspoons of dried thyme to your beef stew.
Rosemary
Another herb that complements beef stew is rosemary. Its intense aroma and pine-like flavor add depth to any dish.
When making your beef stew, try using fresh rosemary springs or 1-2 teaspoons of dried rosemary.
Bay Leaves
Bay leaves might seem like an insignificant ingredient in your pantry, but they can make all the difference when added to stews.
They offer a subtle sweetness that balances out the savory flavors in the dish. Just add 1-2 bay leaves to your beef stew during cooking.
Parsley
Parsley’s fresh and bright taste will help cut through the beef broth’s richness while adding some green color to your stew.
Add chopped parsley towards the end of cooking to retain its freshness.
Sage
Used sparingly, sage can be a delightful addition to a hearty beef stew. It has an earthy taste with slight minty undertones.
Use one tablespoon of chopped fresh sage or half a tablespoon of dried sage for every two pounds of meat.
Parsley
Parsley may seem like an unassuming herb, but adding some freshly chopped parsley towards the end of cooking can brighten up any dish – including beef stew.
Fresh parsley has a delicate flavor and will infuse freshness into everything while balancing out heavier flavors like rich beef broth.
Oregano
Oregano is an herb that’s more commonly associated with Italian-style dishes but its slight bitterness pairs nicely with beef too. It has a tangier taste than other herbs on this list, so use it sparingly not to overpower the flavors already working their magic in your stew!
Add fresh oregano towards the end of cooking before adding any heartier vegetables such as potatoes or turnips.. Or use dried oregano if you prefer.
These herbs work well with beef stew – feel free to experiment with others, such as oregano or marjoram!
Whether you prefer fresh or dried herbs (fresh is always better!), adding these fragrant ingredients will give your hearty meal an extra layer of warmth and flavor that will make you want seconds!