Beef Stew:
Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Add carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
Add Liquids and Simmer: Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Return the beef to the pot, add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the Stew: Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Grandpa’s Apple Pie:
Prepare the Filling: Peel and slice the apples, placing them in a bowl. Add lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the apple mixture and dot with butter. Place the second pie crust on top, trimming the edges and crimping to seal. Cut slits in the top crust for ventilation.
Bake the Pie: Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool before serving.
Classic Roast Chicken:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Stuff the cavity with lemon, garlic, and onion. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil and season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Beef Stew: Serve the stew with crusty bread for dipping, or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, or frozen for up to 3 months.
Apple Pie: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Store the pie in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Roast Chicken: Pair the roast chicken with roasted vegetables or a side salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shred the leftover chicken for sandwiches or soups.
Variants:
Beef Stew Variations: Try adding parsnips, turnips, or celery to the stew for extra flavor. You can also use a slow cooker to make the stew; simply brown the beef and then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
Apple Pie Variations: For a twist, add a handful of raisins or cranberries to the apple filling. You could also sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added crunch.
Roast Chicken Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as sage, thyme, or garlic powder for a new flavor profile. For an extra crispy skin, roast the chicken at 450°F (232°C) for the first 15 minutes, then lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C).
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of meat for the stew?
Yes! While beef is traditional, you can substitute with lamb, pork, or even chicken. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
How can I make my apple pie crust flakier?
To achieve a flaky crust, make sure your butter is cold when working the dough. You can also use a combination of butter and shortening for a lighter texture.
Can I cook the chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the chicken a day ahead, then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
What’s the best way to store leftover stew?
Leftover beef stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
These timeless dishes, crafted with care by Grandpa, continue to be cherished favorites for families everywhere. Whether it’s the comforting warmth of beef stew, the sweet simplicity of apple pie, or the savory goodness of roast chicken, these recipes remind us of the value of home-cooked meals that bring loved ones together.
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