Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional spooky touches: black olives, cherry tomatoes, or mini bell peppers for decoration
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season beef chunks with salt and pepper, then brown in batches until all sides are golden. Remove and set aside.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Cook until vegetables are tender and onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for a minute to develop the flavors. Pour in red wine (if using) and scrape up browned bits. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Return beef to the pot. Add beef broth, ensuring meat and vegetables are covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours until beef is tender.
- Uncover, adjust seasoning if needed. Decorate with black olives, cherry tomatoes, or mini bell peppers to create spooky eyes or creatures for a Halloween theme.
Notes
- Use high-quality beef for richer flavor and tenderness.
- Add a splash of bourbon or whiskey for a smoky flavor.
- Include Halloween-themed garnishes like mini marshmallows or shredded cheese for fun visuals.
- Adjust spice levels by adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a fiery twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop / Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg