All American Stew
A hearty American stew featuring tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and celery in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for cozy family dinners or hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut meat and vegetables into serving sizes.
- Mix tomato sauce, tapioca, sugar, and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the meat and vegetables.
- Bake about 4 hours in a slow oven at 250°F (cover).
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef before adding it to the stew. You can substitute tapioca with cornstarch if needed, or use beef broth instead of tomato sauce for a different base. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added depth. To add some heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes. This stew is a classic among American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty All American Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting side. For additional flavor, top with fresh parsley before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portioned containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, simmer on the stove until heated through, adding a bit of water if it’s too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of All American Stew contains roughly 1122 calories, with 12g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), potassium (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1475mg per serving (64% 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 different vegetables in this stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the stew with your favorite vegetables like green beans, peas, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How can I thicken the stew if it turns out too watery?
If your stew is too watery, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stirring it into the stew. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes to naturally thicken the broth.
Is it possible to cook this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy days.
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).