How to Make a Delicious Paleo-Friendly Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

Craving a hearty and comforting meal that fits within your Paleo lifestyle? Look no further than this easy-to-make beef stew with root vegetables. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also offers a bounty of nutrients thanks to the meat and veggies. If you’re new to Paleo or just looking for a satisfying meal that abides by its principles, this beef stew is sure to hit the spot.

What is Paleo, Anyway?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s quickly talk about what it means to eat Paleo. The Paleo diet focuses on consuming the types of foods presumed to have been eaten by early humans—think meats, fish, nuts, leafy greens, regional veggies, and seeds, while avoiding processed foods, grains, and sugars. The idea is to eat more wholesome, nutrient-dense foods.

Ingredients:

To make this stew, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds of beef (choose a hearty cut like chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil
• 3 cups of beef broth (make sure it’s Paleo-friendly!)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3-4 large carrots, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 turnips, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (check for added sugars to ensure it’s Paleo)
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by cutting all your vegetables and meat. This not only helps the cooking process go smoothly but ensures everything cooks evenly.

2. Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add the olive or coconut oil. In batches, add the beef pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sear them on all sides until they’re nicely browned. This adds a depth of flavor to your stew. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion. Cook until translucent before adding the minced garlic. Sauté for another minute or so, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Deglaze and Simmer: Return the beef to the pot and add the tomato paste, stirring to combine. Pour in the beef broth, add the dried thyme and bay leaf, and bring everything to a simmer. Let it simmer, covered, for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the Root Vegetables: After the stew has simmered and the beef is starting to get tender, add in the chopped carrots, parsnips, and turnips. Cover and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Final Touches: Once everything is cooked through, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf, and if you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the stew hot, maybe with some Paleo-friendly bread or as is for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Some Tips for the Best Beef Stew:

• Searing is Key: Don’t skip searing the beef. It locks in flavors and gives the stew a fantastic depth.
• Cut Uniformly: Make sure to cut the vegetables roughly the same size. This ensures they cook evenly.
• Be Patient: Good things take time, and this stew is no exception. Allowing it to simmer slowly melds the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment: Feel free to mix up the root vegetables based on what’s available or what you prefer. Sweet potatoes are another excellent addition for a slight sweetness.

This Paleo-friendly beef stew with root vegetables is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl full of comfort, nutrition, and a nod to our ancestors’ way of eating. Whether on a chilly winter day or anytime you crave something hearty, this stew will warm you up and keep you satisfied without veering off your Paleo path. Enjoy every spoonful!