Are you looking for a different but absolutely delicious beef stew? Look no further than this Beef Stew Mediterranean style! It is a combination of tender stewing beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in a rich tomato and beef stock blend.

Don’t let the cook time fool you. For the most part you let simmer and walk away, spending minimal time in the kitchen. Let me show you how!

First, lets gather your ingredients!

2 pounds stewing beef (cubed)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Flour (for that perfect sear)
Olive oil
1 large yellow onion (chopped)
1 cup celery (chopped)
6 cloves garlic (chopped)
28 ounces crushed canned tomatoes
2 cups beef stock
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon chili flakes (for a touch of heat)
2 large zucchinis (large 1 inch chunks)
2 large red bell peppers (Large 1 inch chunks)
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives (for a briny kick)
4 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Super Easy Instructions:

Begin by coating the stewing beef with a light dusting of flour, and generously seasoning with salt and pepper.
In a large, heavy-based Dutch oven or saucepan, heat olive oil over high heat. Once the oil shimmers with anticipation, sear the beef on all sides until it’s kissed by a golden-brown hue. Once seared to perfection, remove the beef and set it aside.
Lower the heat to low, and add more oil if the pan seems to crave it. Toss in the chopped onions and your diced celery. Let them sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions achieve a slight translucence.
Add the minced garlic, dried rosemary, and a touch of chili flakes and let them harmonize for about a minute.
Bring back the seared beef along with any juices it left behind. Now, introduce the crushed canned tomatoes and pour in the beef stock, stirring this masterpiece together like a medley of flavors.
Cover the pot and let simmer on low for 1-1.5 hours, allowing the beef to tenderize and the flavors to infuse. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
As the beef nears perfection, it’s time to introduce the zucchinis and red bell peppers to the mix. Let them join the party and cook for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If the stew seems to yearn for a bit more liquid, you can introduce a touch of water to the mix, adjusting to your preferred level.
As the finale approaches, add the Kalamata olives and chopped fresh parsley.
Taste and adjust the notes as needed – more salt, more pepper, or a touch more chili flakes, all tailored to your palate’s preferences.
The stage is set, and the aroma is irresistible! Serve this Beef Stew Mediterranean Style with your choice of rice, mashed potatoes, or a toasted baguette.

Storage Instructions:

Should you find yourself with encore-worthy leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or beef stock if needed, and savor all over again.

Substitutions:

For a vegetarian twist, replace stewing beef with meaty portobello mushrooms.
Swap out dried rosemary with fresh rosemary sprigs for an extra burst of herbal fragrance.
Use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for a lighter version.

Variations:

Enhance the Mediterranean vibe with a handful of capers and sun-dried tomatoes.
Experiment with other hearty vegetables like eggplant or butternut squash for a seasonal touch.
Add a splash of red wine during the simmering process for a deeper flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions:

Pair this hearty stew with a glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Chianti, to complement the robust flavors.
Serve with crusty bread and my delicious Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad to balance the richness.

Time to embrace the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality with this savory, hearty Beef stew Mediterranean style, that’s as nourishing as it is comforting.

From the seared beef to tender zucchinis, each ingredient plays its part in a flavor-filled symphony that captures the essence of the Mediterranean spirit. Get ready to savor the journey and impress your family! 🍖🌶️🥘🍴