Are you tired of serving plain old beef stew every time you make it?
Well, get ready to spice things up!
In this short guide, we will explore a plethora of mouthwatering options to serve alongside your beef stew.
From warm crusty bread to creamy mashed potatoes, these delectable side dishes are sure to elevate your stew to a whole new level of deliciousness.
So, get your taste buds ready for a culinary adventure!
what to serve with beef stew
When serving beef stew, there are a variety of side dishes that complement this hearty dish.
Some popular options include crunchy bread like a French baguette or Texas Roadhouse dinner rolls, cheese such as Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits, cornbread (regular or Mexican), rice (white or brown), and simple side salads like Caesar or tomato salad.
Mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash, polenta, roast potatoes, couscous, grilled vegetables, and buttered cabbage are all delicious accompaniments to beef stew as well.
Key Points:
- Crunchy bread like French baguette or Texas Roadhouse dinner rolls
- Cheese options such as Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits
- Cornbread (regular or Mexican) or rice (white or brown)
- Simple side salads like Caesar or tomato salad
- Mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash, polenta, roast potatoes, couscous, grilled vegetables, and buttered cabbage
- A variety of options like couscous, polenta, and grilled vegetables
what to serve with beef stew – Watch Video
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Pro Tips:
1. In some parts of Eastern Europe, beef stew is traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream. The tangy flavor of the cream perfectly balances the richness of the stew.
2. For a twist on classic beef stew accompaniments, try serving it with a side of buttered noodles. The flavorful broth from the stew seeps into the noodles, creating a delicious combination.
3. In Mexico, beef stew known as “birria” is often served with a side of corn tortillas and a tomato-based salsa. The tortillas can be used to make tacos or simply soaked in the flavorful broth.
4. In Southern United States, beef stew is commonly paired with a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth texture and buttery flavor of the potatoes complement the heartiness of the stew.
5. In Morocco, beef stew called “tajine” is traditionally served with a side of couscous. The small grains of couscous soak up the aromatic flavors from the stew and add a pleasant texture to the meal.
1. Crunchy Bread (French Baguette)
There’s something incredibly satisfying about dipping a piece of crunchy bread into a warm and comforting bowl of beef stew. The crusty exterior of a French baguette perfectly complements the rich flavors and hearty texture of the stew. It provides a nice contrast of textures, with soft and tender beef paired with the crispiness of the bread. The baguette can be sliced and served alongside the stew or used to make delicious sandwiches with the stew as a filling. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for any beef stew meal.
To make it even more delightful, you can consider toasting the bread with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs like rosemary or thyme. This adds an extra layer of flavor and elevates the overall experience.
2. Texas Roadhouse Dinner Rolls
If you’re looking for a more indulgent option to pair with your beef stew, the famous Texas Roadhouse dinner rolls are a must-try. These rolls are soft, buttery, and fluffy, making them the perfect accompaniment to any stew. Serve them warm and straight from the oven to let the butter melt into the bread, creating an irresistible taste.
What sets the Texas Roadhouse dinner rolls apart is their ability to soak up the delicious gravy in the beef stew. The rolls have a slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory and robust taste of the stew, enhancing every bite. When you enjoy a tender and melt-in-your-mouth piece of beef stew along with these heavenly rolls, your taste buds will be thoroughly satisfied.
3. Cheese (Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits)
What could be better than adding some cheesy goodness to your beef stew meal? Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a perfect choice for cheese lovers. These delectable biscuits are packed with flavor and feature a delicious blend of sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, and herbs.
The rich and buttery texture of the Cheddar Bay Biscuits pairs perfectly with the hearty and robust flavors of beef stew. The cheesy goodness adds a delightful twist to the meal, making it even more satisfying. These biscuits can be served alongside the stew or broken into smaller pieces and mixed into the stew for an extra cheesy surprise in every spoonful.
4. Cornbread (Regular or Mexican)
If you’re looking to add a touch of Southern comfort to your beef stew meal, consider serving cornbread as a side dish. Both regular cornbread and the spicier Mexican cornbread pair wonderfully with the flavors of beef stew.
Regular cornbread offers a slightly sweet and buttery flavor that complements the savory and hearty taste of the stew. The moist and crumbly texture of the bread provides a delightful contrast to the tender beef and vegetables in the stew.
On the other hand, Mexican cornbread adds an extra kick to the meal. Infused with jalapenos, corn kernels, and spices, it brings a unique and vibrant flavor to the table. The hint of heat from the jalapenos adds an exciting element to the beef stew, transforming it into a more complex and satisfying dish.
5. Rice (White or Brown)
Rice is a versatile and classic side dish that pairs well with beef stew. Whether you prefer fluffy white rice or nutty brown rice, both options provide a neutral base that complements the flavorful stew.
White rice offers a light and fluffy texture that absorbs the delicious gravy in the stew, while brown rice adds a nutty and chewy element to the meal. Whichever you choose, rice not only enhances the taste but also adds a comforting and filling component to the dish.
To elevate the flavor, you can cook the rice in broth instead of water for an extra boost of richness. This simple addition takes the rice to a whole new level and creates a harmonious blend with the beef stew.
- Fluffy white rice absorbs the delicious gravy in the stew
- Nutty brown rice adds a chewy element to the meal
- Cooking rice in broth instead of water adds richness to the dish
“Rice is a versatile and classic side dish that pairs well with beef stew.”
6. Simple Side Salad
Sometimes, all you need is a refreshing and crisp salad to balance out the richness of beef stew. A simple side salad can be a perfect addition to the meal, providing a fresh and light element.
Consider tossing together a medley of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onions. Drizzle some tangy vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and acidity. The combination of fresh vegetables and zesty dressing offsets the richness of the stew and adds a burst of flavor and texture to the overall meal.
7. Caesar Salad
For a more indulgent salad option, serve a classic Caesar salad alongside your beef stew. The bold flavors of romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing create a fantastic contrast to the hearty stew.
The crispness of the lettuce and the savory notes of the Parmesan cheese provide a delightful crunch, while the creamy and tangy Caesar dressing adds a burst of flavor. Mixed with the warm and savory beef stew, this combination offers a satisfying and well-balanced meal.
- Romaine lettuce offers a crisp texture.
- Parmesan cheese adds savory notes.
- Croutons provide an extra crunch.
- Creamy Caesar dressing brings tangy and rich flavor.
“The bold flavors of romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing create a fantastic contrast to the hearty stew.”
8. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food and an excellent side dish for beef stew. The creamy, buttery, and fluffy texture of mashed potatoes perfectly complements the rich and savory flavors of the stew.
To make the mashed potatoes even more indulgent, add a touch of roasted garlic or grated cheese for extra flavor. This will enhance the overall taste and create a more satisfying meal.
In addition, the smooth and velvety texture of the mashed potatoes pairs well with the tender beef and warm gravy, creating a harmonious combination that is sure to please your taste buds.
To summarize, mashed potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to beef stew due to their comforting texture and ability to enhance the flavors of the dish. Add roasted garlic or grated cheese for an extra touch of indulgence. Remember to enjoy this delightful combination of flavors and textures!
- Consider adding roasted garlic or grated cheese for extra flavor
- The smooth and velvety texture complements the beef and gravy
- Enjoy the harmonious combination of flavors and textures
9. Cauliflower Mash
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to classic mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is a fantastic option. Made from steamed or boiled cauliflower, this low-carb side dish offers a creamy and satisfying texture.
Cauliflower mash provides a lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, while still delivering a similar comforting experience. The mild and slightly nutty flavor of the cauliflower pairs well with the rich flavors of the beef stew, creating a delicious and guilt-free meal.
Benefits of cauliflower mash:
- Low in carbohydrates
- Creamy and satisfying texture
- Lighter alternative to mashed potatoes
“Cauliflower mash is a healthier and guilt-free option that pairs perfectly with rich and hearty dishes.”
10. Polenta
Polenta, a traditional Italian dish made from ground cornmeal, is an excellent choice to serve with beef stew. Its creamy and smooth texture offers a wonderful contrast to the hearty and chunky stew.
When cooked with broth or milk, polenta becomes creamy, flavorful, and perfect for pairing with beef stew. Its mild flavor allows it to absorb the rich flavors of the stew, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
To add an interesting twist, mix in grated cheese or herbs like rosemary or thyme into the polenta for extra flavor. This elevates the dish and makes it an even more delightful accompaniment to the stew.
So next time you enjoy a comforting bowl of beef stew, consider serving it with polenta. The rich and creamy texture, along with the added flavors from cheese or herbs, will enhance your dining experience.
- Polenta offers a creamy and smooth contrast to the chunky texture of beef stew.
- It can be cooked with broth or milk for added flavor.
- Mix in grated cheese or herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Consider serving polenta with beef stew for a delightful dining experience.
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You may need to know these questions about what to serve with beef stew
What side dishes go with beef stew?
When it comes to choosing side dishes for beef stew, there are plenty of options to complement its rich flavors. One popular choice is rice, which can absorb the delicious broth and add a subtle texture to each spoonful. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, cauliflower rice can provide a similar effect without the added carbohydrates. Another classic option is a warm baguette or garlic bread, perfect for sopping up every last bit of stew. For a more indulgent treat, biscuits, cornbread, or dinner rolls can offer a comforting and filling accompaniment. And if you’re feeling adventurous, savory muffins can add an unexpected twist to your beef stew dinner.
What vegetables go well with beef stew?
When it comes to pairing vegetables with beef stew, root vegetables are a fantastic choice. Not only do they add depth and texture, but they also become wonderfully tender as they simmer. While carrots are a popular choice, don’t hesitate to explore other options such as parsnips, turnips, rutabaga, celeriac, and sweet potatoes. To ensure they maintain their integrity, be sure to cut them into larger pieces so that they don’t disintegrate into mush while cooking.
Is stew a main dish?
Yes, stew can be considered a main dish. While both stews and soups are filling, stews generally have less liquid than soups. Stews are often served as entrees and can be enjoyed as a standalone meal. They are typically served over a starchy side like rice or polenta, which enhances their hearty and satisfying nature.
What is Beef Bourguignon traditionally served with?
In addition to the classic accompaniments of boiled baby potatoes or mashed potatoes, Beef Bourguignon is often paired with crusty French bread. This hearty and flavorsome dish hailing from the Burgundy region of France is popularly enjoyed alongside a glass of red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or a rich Burgundy. Another delightful option to complement the beef stew is to serve it with a side of buttered noodles, allowing the savory flavors to mingle with the tender pasta.
Reference source
https://southernhomeexpress.com/serve-with-beef-stew/
https://www.sidechef.com/collections/1505/21-ideas-and-42-recipes-for-best-side-dishes-to-serve-with-stews/
https://www.thekitchn.com/7-vegetables-to-add-to-stews-and-braises-239404
https://sterlingsilvermeats.com/article/29-desserts-that-perfectly-follow-a-beef-dish/
