This cozy Beef Stew with Red Wine from Top Chef Stephanie Cmar is incredibly rich and flavorful. Red wine, California Prunes, smoky paprika and cinnamon make this the kind of rib-sticking winter meal that warms you from the inside out. Though it takes a few minutes to assemble the stew, most of the cooking time is hands off. Bonus – the simmering stew will fill your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma. Serve with a hearty rustic loaf (and the rest of that bottle of Pinot Noir).
Who is Stephanie Cmar?
Stephanie is a 3-time contestant on Top Chef, most recently appearing in Top Chef All Stars 17. After immersing herself in the Boston restaurant scene, Stephanie realized she wanted to be closer to the people she was cooking for. She now works as a private chef and consultant, giving her the personal connections she craved.
Why we love this beef stew recipe
Stephanie’s Beef Stew with Red Wine is the ultimate winter meal. It’s rich, aromatic and incredibly satisfying. If you use an oven-safe braising pan (we love Staub’s cast iron and enamel braiser), it can be made all in one pan. Less mess, more time to enjoy the rest of that bottle of Pinot.
What to serve with Beef Stew with Red Wine
For the ultimate comfort food meal, serve this beef stew with red wine with creamy mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash or a rustic loaf of bread. Round out your meal with a winter salad (don’t sleep on our Pear Prune and Fennel Salad).
What wine works best in this recipe?
Our rule of thumb when cooking with wine – never cook with a wine you wouldn’t drink! Stephanie used Pinot Noir in her recipe. We recommend choosing a California Pinot Noir (try a cooler region, like Sonoma). Why California? Like we always say, “what grows together grows together”.
Love this Beef Stew with Red Wine? We’ve got more delicious recipes from Stephanie Cmar…
Easy enough for a weeknight, but elegant enough to serve to guests, these Sweet and Spicy Chicken Legs are always a hit. Even better – they can be on the table in about a half hour!
If you loved Stephanie’s recipe for Beef Stew with Red Wine, you’ve got to try her incredible Braised Short Ribs! This mouthwatering dish is bursting with bold flavors.
Need more proof that prunes and red wine are a match made in heaven?
Claire Saffitz‘s tangy-light mascarpone cake is studded with sweet, flavorful prunes simmered in red wine. It’s the kind of recipe that will make a dessert person out of anyone (if you know you know…check out Claire’s cookbook).
Did you try this recipe? Maybe you’ve got a favorite recipe using California Prunes that you’d like to share with us? Snap a pic and share it on social using #caprunes.
