Lemony Beef Stew

This cozy, comforting, and delicious stew is packed with rich beefy flavor and tender vegetables!

This comforting Greek lemony beef stew is packed with tender beef, hearty potatoes, and the addition of cabbage for extra texture and flavor. Simmered to perfection in a lemon-infused broth, it’s a dish that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying. Perfect for chilly days, this stew brings the brightness of citrus to a hearty, home-cooked meal.

It’s even cold here in Houston today, so I immediately wanted warm and cozy comfort food. I think I made my lemony unstuffed cabbage roll soup with meatballs three times last week, so I wanted to go even cozier. Beef and cabbage go well together, so this beef stew did the trick. Its deep, rich, beefy flavor is like a warm hug, while the potatoes are pillowy soft, and the cabbage adds texture and a little sweetness to the lemony stew. It’s a great alternative to tomato-based stews, and I know you’ll love it!

Why will I make this often?

Rich, cozy, hearty,

Tender, juicy beef

Melt-in-your-mouth potatoes

Sweet Caramelized carrots

Soft, leafy cabbage and

Herby, lemony beef sauce.

What are the ingredients for beef stew?

Boneless chuck beef –cut into big chunks as equally as possible, like in my video. If you don’t have this, or it’s expensive at the supermarket, you can use your favorite cut of beef, or you could substitute it with lamb.

Olive oil -you just need a little because beef chuck roast tends to release a lot of oil. It will be perfect for sautéing the vegetables.

Flour -for dredging the meat to help brown and form a crust.

Onion -finely chopped to season every bit of the cabbage and sauce.

Carrots -peeled and diced to add a sweet, tender bit that compliments the beef and cabbage.

Garlic cloves -grated or minced and measured with your heart.

Bay leaves -add an aromatic, bright, herby flavor to the stew.

Juice of 2 lemons -I serve lemon slices on the side for anyone who wants even more bright, lemony flavor.

Beef broth -you can use water, but beef broth is more flavorful and adds more beefy flavor.

Dried crushed oregano -the earthy, slightly sweet, herby flavor intensifies as the stew cooks.

Sprig of rosemary -adds an aromatic, peppery herbiness that pairs well with oregano.

Potatoes -peeled and cubed Yukon gold or russet potatoes.

Head of cabbage -this is optional because it’s not traditional, but I like adding it because I love it. It adds heartiness and nutrients to the soup. Roughly chop it, and be sure to season it. If you don’t add it, you can add more potatoes, cauliflower, or your favorite vegetables.

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How do I prepare the beef?

Cut the beef into chunks (see video) and pat dry with paper towels. Lightly dredge the beef in flour, shaking off any excess, and season lightly with salt and pepper.

How do I sear the beef?

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, and sear the pieces until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Do I need to sauté the veggies?

In the same pot, add the onion and carrots. Sauté over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring, until fragrant.

How do I build the stew?

Return the beef to the pot. Add the bay leaves, oregano, rosemary, lemon juice, and 4 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover to simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

What’s the best way to add the potatoes and cabbage?

Stir in the potatoes and cabbage (if using). Add more broth if needed to cover the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper and simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.

How do I season the stew?

Remove the rosemary sprig and bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional lemon juice if desired.

What’s the best way to serve lemony beef stew?

All you need is some toasted bread, and dinner is on the table, but you could also serve it over rice. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this hearty and zesty Greek stew. Kali Orexi!

Do you have more comforting stews?

Stifado: Greek Beef Stew with Shallots

Greek Chicken Stew with French Fries: An Easy Dinner Idea

Fasolakia me Arni: String Beans & Lamb Stew

Greek Spinach & Potato Stew

A Cozy Beef Stew with Peppers & Mushrooms

Greek Lamb & Cabbage Stew

Watch the Video