Description
This Fall Apple Cider Stew Mash is a cozy, harvest-inspired dish that combines tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich apple cider gravy with a side of buttery mashed potatoes. The cider adds a subtle sweetness and depth, making this stew mash a perfect comfort meal for cool autumn nights.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
- 2 tbsp butter
- For the mashed potatoes: 2 lbs potatoes (peeled and cubed), 1/2 cup milk, 2 tbsp butter, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the vegetables.
- Pour in apple cider and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Meanwhile, prepare the mashed potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, until fork tender. Drain, then mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the apple cider stew over a bed of mashed potatoes, spooning extra sauce on top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a hint of sweetness, add diced apples to the stew during the last 30 minutes of simmering.
- You can make the stew ahead of time — it tastes even better the next day.
- Use sweet potatoes for a fall twist on the mash.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 2 hrs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braise
- Cuisine: American