Hearty Cowboy Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) stewing beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz / 400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the stewing beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), drained kidney beans, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Once the stew is ready, serve it hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

This Cowboy Stew is perfect for a comforting and filling meal, especially on colder days!