Aunt Emily'S Beef Stew
A hearty beef stew with rich tomato flavor, aromatic spices, and optional vegetables, perfect for comforting dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper.
- Brown the coated beef in oil.
- Combine all other ingredients except vegetables and sherry and bring to a boil.
- Add optional vegetables to the stew.
- Stir in sherry and simmer for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight in a mix of sherry, garlic, and spices. For a thicker stew, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. If you prefer, swap sherry with red wine or beef broth for different flavor profiles. Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can also boost the aroma of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Emily's Beef Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad complements the rich flavors beautifully. This stew pairs well with a robust red wine, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Emily'S Beef Stew contains roughly 867 calories, with 20g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (63% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 980mg per serving (43% 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 stew?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with lamb or pork for a different taste. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially with pork, so adjust accordingly to ensure tenderness.
What vegetables can I add to the stew?
Carrots, potatoes, and celery work wonderfully in this beef stew. You can also add peas or green beans towards the end of cooking for extra color and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then transfer it to a slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and creates tender meat.
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).