When you make a good beef stew do you put a bay leaf in it & what else?!
Answers: I;ve been told you can put just abt anytype of vehatable in it as long as you used V8 juice instead of water,chopped beef roast thats been browned,And a Bay leaf.Then serve it with cornbread insterad of crackers.Sounds good to me but is this the way to do it?
I'd use beef stock instead of V8 and also some red wine. No water. You'll have a very flavorful stew. I don't use a bay leaf as I do not like the flavor. Rosemary is nice.
Generally, celery, onion, potato, beef chunks,carrot, green peas & bay leaf. Some add a bit of Burgundy wine .or turnip.
I like to add a little dry mustard, Thyme, black pepper, worstershire, and a little chili powder; along with the onions celery carrots & potatoes. some people us the frozen mixed vegetables. those save some time in a pinch. This is a western or ranch style beef stew recipe.
Make sure you use some root vegetables -- carrots, potatoes, and parsnips are all good. Turnips and rutabagas might be a little too strong in flavor. Celery is also good, but don't add it until near the end.
If you use frozen vegetables -- peas or green beans -- don't add them till the last minute as they only really need to be heated through. I don't think broccoli, cauliflower, or corn would work very well.
Oh yes, and definitely canned tomatoes. Add them at the beginning, along with the juice that's left in the can. Onions are a must -- I prefer to sauté them separately before adding to the stew, but you can also just put in some of those little pearl onions. A little garlic is good too.
As for herbs and spices, use restraint. Cloves are good, but only add 2-3. Rosemary or thyme would also be good, not more than a teaspoon or so.
As for liquids, don't use water as the sauce will be too diluted. V-8 juice sounds good, or canned tomato juice, canned beef stock, wine or even beer.