Aunt Dot'S Brown Stew
A hearty and flavorful beef stew with tender meat, vegetables, and a rich gravy, topped with biscuits for a comforting family meal suitable for all occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the cubed chuck meat in oil.
- Add enough water to cover the meat and cook for about 1 hour.
- Add diced potatoes, quartered carrots, chopped onion, bay leaf, garlic salt, beef bouillon cubes, and A.1. sauce.
- Continue cooking until vegetables are tender.
- In 1 tablespoon of oil, brown 2 tablespoons of flour.
- Add 1 cup water to the flour and stir to make gravy.
- Simmer the gravy for 2 minutes over low heat.
- Add the gravy to the meat and vegetables and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Top with a can of biscuits.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until biscuits are done, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chuck in A.1. sauce overnight. If you don't have beef bouillon cubes, you can substitute with homemade beef stock. Use different vegetables like peas or green beans for variety. To thicken the stew, ensure the flour is well browned before adding water, creating a deep flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty brown stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Consider serving a fresh salad on the side, such as a simple green salad or a Beef And Pasta Salad for a complete dinner. For a comforting dessert, try Quick Apple Dumplings after your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Dot'S Brown Stew contains roughly 662 calories, with 30g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (103% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (76% of the Daily Value), and protein (61% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cut of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as leaner cuts may require less simmering to remain tender.
What can I substitute for the biscuits on top?
If you prefer a healthier option, try topping the stew with a layer of mashed potatoes or make a simple cornbread mixture. Both will add a delicious twist.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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).