5 Hour Meal
A hearty slow-cooked beef stew with tender vegetables and creamy soup-based sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the stew beef, potatoes, carrots, and onion in a heavy pot.
- Mix the cream of celery soup, water, and onion soup, then pour over the meat and vegetables.
- Cover the pot and bake at 250° to 300° for 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew beef before adding it to the pot. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup if desired. If you don't have fresh vegetables on hand, frozen carrots and potatoes can work as a convenient alternative. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the dish's flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or fluffy biscuits, making it a great choice for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving a light side salad or steamed green beans 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 in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, covered, for 2-3 minutes until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5 Hour Meal contains roughly 2228 calories, with 45g protein, 322g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (154% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork in place of beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook faster. For pork, ensure it's cooked thoroughly to avoid any food safety issues.
What should I do if the stew is too thick?
If you find the stew is too thick for your liking, simply add a bit more water or broth while it's cooking to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to incorporate the liquid evenly.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).