4 Hour Stew
A hearty slow-cooked beef stew with vegetables and a savory tomato flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Oil a casserole dish.
- Place beef in the bottom of the pan.
- Add vegetables, salt, sugar, tapioca, and tomato juice.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook at 250°F (about 121°C) for 4 hours.
- Do not stir while in the oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For a rich flavor, consider browning the stewing beef in a skillet before adding it to the casserole dish. You can substitute tapioca with cornstarch or flour if needed, although it may alter the texture slightly. Feel free to add other vegetables such as celery or bell peppers for a twist, or even include some herbs like thyme or bay leaf for added depth. Browse more American recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth, or over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with Rolled Stuffed Steak for a more substantial dinner, and a side salad adds a nice freshness to balance the richness of the stew.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 4 Hour Stew contains roughly 326 calories, with 8g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (230% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1780mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Simply follow the same steps for combining ingredients, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Just be sure to adjust the liquid if necessary, as slow cookers retain moisture more effectively.
What type of beef is best for stewing?
Chuck roast is an excellent choice for stewing due to its marbling and flavor. It becomes tender and juicy when cooked slowly. Other options include brisket or round, but chuck is generally preferred for its taste and texture in beef recipes.
Can I add more vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other hearty vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even green beans. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Adding a variety of vegetables can enhance the stew's flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).