Irresistible Carbonnade Flamande : A Hearty Flemish Beef Stew You’ll Love

When it comes to comforting, slow-cooked meals that fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, few dishes compare to Carbonnade Flamande. This rich and flavorful Flemish beef stew is made with tender braised beef, a touch of allspice, and slow-simmered onions, creating an unforgettable dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Perfect for fans of old-time beef stew recipes, this dish is steeped in tradition yet simple enough for modern kitchens. Whether you’re searching for a one-pot easy beef stew recipe, a cozy slow-cooked beef stew recipe, or creative beef recipes for dinner, this recipe deserves a place on your table.

If you loved hearty recipes like our slow cooker chicken stew or our comforting creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup, you’re going to fall in love with this slow-simmered classic.

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Why You’ll Love This Old-time Beef Stew Recipe

This slow cooked beef recipe stands out for so many reasons:

• Made with simple, humble ingredients that transform into something extraordinary.
• One-pot convenience with minimal cleanup.
• Perfect balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic spices like allspice.
• Feels like a beef stew recipe straight out of a storybook — rustic and timeless.
• Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even roasted vegetables.

It’s also a fantastic choice if you’re looking for crockpot recipes slow cooker adaptations or a showstopping dish for a dinner party.

Ingredients For Carbonnade Flamande (Flemish Beef Stew)

Here’s what you’ll need to make about 6 hearty servings:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef stock
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley

For an even more rustic feel, serve with sides like our crispy smashed potato salad or warm pumpkin rolls.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need For This One-pot Easy Beef Stew Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this braised beef dish:

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

You can also adapt it for the slow cooker if you prefer crockpot recipes slow cooker style — more on that below.

How To Make Carbonnade Flamande Step By Step

Follow these easy steps for the perfect beef stew with allspice:

Step 1: Brown the beef

Heat oil or butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides in batches. Remove beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic

In the same pot, add sliced onions and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until soft and golden. Add garlic and cook another minute.

Step 3: Build the base

Sprinkle flour over onions and stir well. Slowly add beef stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Season and simmer

Return beef to the pot. Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, allspice, bay leaf, and mustard. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Slow cook

Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let simmer gently for about 2 to 2 ½ hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender and sauce is rich and thick.

Remove bay leaf before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

For a side dish idea, serve alongside our garlic butter corn with melty cheese for a full, comforting meal.

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Tips For Perfect Slow Cooked Beef That Melts In Your Mouth

• Use beef chuck — it’s ideal for braising because it becomes tender and flavorful.
• Don’t rush the browning step — it adds depth to the final dish.
• Keep the heat low during simmering to avoid tough meat.
• Let the stew rest off the heat for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
• Make a day ahead — this stew tastes even better the next day.

Creative Variations: Braised Beef, Crockpot Recipes Slow Cooker, And More

This recipe is incredibly versatile:

• Add root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for more heartiness.
• Use the same recipe with lamb or pork for a twist.
• For a crockpot recipe slow cooker, simply brown the beef and onions as instructed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of cinnamon for a slightly different aroma.
• Serve over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice for a satisfying meal.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Making Slow-cooked Beef Stew Recipe

• Using lean cuts of beef — they can dry out and become tough.
• Boiling instead of simmering — keep the heat low and steady.
• Skipping the browning step — this layer of flavor is crucial.
• Adding vegetables too early — they can turn mushy after long cooking.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll have a foolproof one-pot easy beef stew recipe every time.

Serving Ideas: Beef Recipes For Dinner That Impress

This dish shines with a few thoughtful accompaniments:

• Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.
• Add a side salad or roasted vegetables for freshness.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Finish with a simple dessert like our pumpkin dump cake for a comforting touch.

These ideas make it a standout among beef recipes for dinner.

How To Store And Reheat Leftover Beef Stew Recipe

Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Flemish Beef Stew

Is Carbonnade Flamande the same as beef bourguignon?
Not quite — while both are slow-braised beef stews, Carbonnade Flamande uses allspice and onions and has a distinctively sweet-sour flavor profile.

Can I make it in advance?
Yes — this stew actually tastes better the next day.

What cut of beef is best?
Beef chuck is ideal, but brisket or round can also work.

Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and ensure your stock is gluten-free to make this dish gluten-free friendly.

Final Thoughts: Try This Carbonnade Flamande Tonight

This irresistible Carbonnade Flamande is a timeless dish that delivers rich, comforting flavors with every bite. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy family dinner or as part of an elegant dinner party menu, it’s a dish that will impress and satisfy.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with family and friends and subscribe to our blog for more slow cooked beef recipes, hearty dinners, and comforting one-pot meals. Check out our collection of beef and dinner recipes for even more inspiration.

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