This traditional Scottish Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chunks of beef, hearty root vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. A splash of Scotch whisky is optional but adds wonderful depth of flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (Low) or 4–5 hours (High)
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 800 g (1¾ lb) stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons plain (all-purpose) flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 turnips or 1 small swede (rutabaga), diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 500 ml (2 cups) beef stock
- 100 ml (⅓–½ cup) Scotch whisky (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato purée (tomato paste)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for a thicker stew)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
