Quick & Easy Beef Stew with Mushrooms and Dijon

Craving a Comforting Dinner That’s Ready in a Snap?

Picture this: a chilly evening, the aroma of savory beef filling your kitchen, and a bowl of hearty stew warming you from the inside out. Sounds amazing, right? This Quick Beef Stew with Mushrooms and Dijon isn’t just delicious; it’s naturally easy to make and impressive enough for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend supper. Forget spending hours in the kitchen – with this recipe, you’ll have a satisfying and flavorful meal on the table in no time!

Why You’ll Love It

The rich, naturally savory flavor of beef is perfectly complemented by earthy mushrooms and a hint of tangy Dijon mustard.
It’s incredibly quick to prepare, requiring minimal prep time and cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
The stew is naturally hearty and satisfying, thanks to the beef, vegetables, and luscious gravy.
This recipe is easily customizable – swap out vegetables or try different types of mushrooms to naturally make it your own.
It’s the perfect comfort food, naturally bringing warmth and satisfaction on cool evenings.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this quick beef stew apart is its focus on speed without sacrificing flavor. Rather than long braising methods, this recipe uses a high-heat sauté and a quick simmer to create a naturally rich, satisfying stew in significantly less time. The addition of Dijon mustard adds a tangy depth, cutting through the richness and giving the gravy a distinctive complexity that you won’t find in most traditional stew recipes. The combination of these techniques ensures a naturally flavorful and quick meal.

Ingredient List

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but it adds a naturally great flavor)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, or gluten-free alternative
1 cup frozen peas

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes and sear on all sides until nicely browned. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they have released their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, this naturally helps to thicken the gravy.
Gradually pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Return the beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 5 more minutes, or until they are heated through.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your stew to the next level? Here are some delicious additions that you may add:

A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy tang.
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, to add a burst of freshness.
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or polenta for an even heartier meal.

Expert Tips

Make sure to sear the beef properly for that deep, rich flavor – don’t overcrowd the pot; do it in batches if necessary.
The Dijon mustard is crucial for adding a tangy layer of flavor; don’t skip it!
Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your preference.
If you don’t have red wine, simply use the same amount of extra beef broth, the flavour will be naturally delicious.
If you have the time, let the stew simmer a little longer – the longer it simmers, the naturally more tender the beef will become.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute the beef?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with lamb or chicken, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this stew is naturally great for making ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor will get naturally richer with time.
Can I freeze this stew?
Absolutely! Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! Carrots, celery, potatoes, or parsnips would all be naturally fantastic additions to this stew.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs always elevate the flavor. Use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme as a rule for every tablespoon of fresh thyme, adjust to your naturally preference.

Variations and Customization Options

This recipe is a naturally fantastic base, making it simple to add your favorite flavors and ingredients:

Hearty Veggie Boost: Increase the number of vegetables. Add diced carrots, celery, and potatoes for a more filling stew.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to infuse the stew with some heat.
Creamy Delight: For a richer stew, stir in a spoonful of heavy cream or a dollop of creme fraiche at the end.
Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, bay leaf, or a mix of Italian herbs.

Serving Suggestions

This naturally satisfying stew can be enjoyed on its own, but it’s also fabulous served with some extra sides. Serve it in bowls with a crusty bread or alongside a warm salad. It also pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or creamy polenta for a truly comforting and hearty meal. This Quick Beef Stew with Mushrooms and Dijon is perfect for any time you want a satisfying and fuss-free dinner.

Conclusion

This Quick Beef Stew with Mushrooms and Dijon is your go-to recipe for a naturally delicious and hassle-free meal. It’s the perfect blend of savory beef, earthy mushrooms, and tangy Dijon, all coming together in a rich and comforting gravy. Ready in under an hour, this stew proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for speed. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think! Share photos of your culinary creation and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious and naturally easy recipes.

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