BEEF STEW IN A BREAD BOWL

This hearty and comforting meal brings together tender cubes of beef, an array of savory vegetables, and a medley of aromatic herbs, all served in a delightful edible bread bowl. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this dish promises warmth, flavor, and a unique dining experience that marries the heartiness of a classic stew with the rustic appeal of a bread bowl presentation.

Beef Stew Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds (680g) stewing beef, cubed
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Bread Bowl Ingredients:

• 4 round bread loaves (sourdough or Italian)
• Butter for brushing (optional)

Instructions:

For the Beef Stew:

1. Season the cubed beef with salt and pepper. Toss with flour to coat evenly.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides. Set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
4. Return beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, celery, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Mix well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef and veggies are tender. Stir occasionally.
6. Add frozen peas in the last 10 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.

For the Bread Bowls:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the top off each bread loaf and remove the inner bread, leaving a 1/2-inch thick shell.
3. Optional: Brush inside of bread bowls with melted butter. Bake for 5-7 minutes until lightly toasted.

To Serve:

1. Ladle hot beef stew into each bread bowl.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley.
3. Serve immediately for a comforting and delightful meal!

Note: This hearty Beef Stew in Rustic Bread Bowls is a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or special gatherings, combining tender beef, savory veggies, and the rustic charm of bread bowls for a satisfying dish.