Step 1: Brown the Meat

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the meat cubes with salt and pepper.
  3. Add the meat to the pot in batches, searing on all sides until golden brown (about 4–5 minutes per batch). Remove the meat and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the carrots, parsnips, celery, and mushrooms (if using). Cook for 5 minutes to soften slightly.

Step 3: Build the Broth

  1. Return the browned meat to the pot.
  2. Stir in the tomato paste, coating the meat and vegetables evenly.
  3. Pour in the broth and red wine or apple cider (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release browned bits (deglazing adds flavor).
  4. Add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

  1. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  2. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Optional Vegetables

  1. After the first hour of simmering, add the potatoes and butternut squash (if using).
  2. Continue cooking for another 30–40 minutes until the potatoes and other vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

  1. If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in the flour or cornstarch slurry during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Simmer until the broth thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Season and Serve

  1. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Ladle the Winter Wonderland Stew into bowls.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
  3. Serve hot with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a side of mashed potatoes for a complete winter meal.

Tips for Success

  • Choose the Right Meat: Tougher cuts like beef chuck or lamb shoulder work best for stews because they become tender when slow-cooked.
  • Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap in other winter favorites like turnips, sweet potatoes, or leeks.
  • Add a Kick: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
  • Make It Ahead: Stew tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm the stew over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it if needed.

Why Winter Wonderland Stew Is Perfect for the Season

This stew captures the essence of winter – cozy, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Its rich flavors and tender ingredients make it a dish worth sharing with family and friends, especially during the festive season. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Try this Winter Wonderland Stew and bring a little magic to your dinner table on those chilly evenings. It’s a recipe you’ll return to every winter!