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Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew

Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew
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This Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew is a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that feels straight out of a cozy autumn evening—or a spooky Halloween feast. Tender chunks of beef are slowly simmered in red wine and beef broth with root vegetables and herbs, creating deep, savory flavors. Served in hollowed-out bread bowls, it becomes a fun and festive centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is dramatic.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb beef stew meat

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1 cup red wine

  • 3 carrots, sliced

  • 2 potatoes, cubed

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Hollowed-out bread bowls (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat until nicely seared on all sides. This step builds deep flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaf, coating the beef and vegetables well.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Add the beef broth, carrots, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot in bowls—or ladle into hollowed-out bread bowls for a spooky cauldron effect.

Notes

  • Make it richer: Add a tablespoon of butter at the end for extra silkiness.

  • Thicker stew: Mash a few potatoes into the broth or simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes.

  • Wine substitute: Use extra beef broth if you prefer not to cook with wine.

  • Make ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.

  • Halloween touch: Garnish with fresh thyme or cracked black pepper for a dramatic finish.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/witchs-cauldron-beef-stew/