Aunt Irene'S Courtland Stew
A hearty southern-style chicken stew with tender potatoes, sweet corn, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the hen in a small amount of salted water until cooked.
- Remove the meat from the bone and return it to the stock.
- Add whole potatoes to the stew and cook until tender, then remove and mash them.
- Add the minced onions, tomato paste, canned tomatoes, salt, red pepper, black pepper, and vinegar at the same time as the potatoes.
- Return the mashed potatoes to the stew and cook for about 5 hours.
- Add the canned corn near the end of cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or bay leaves while the stew simmers. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can blend a portion of the corn with some of the broth before returning it to the pot. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to substitute them for canned tomatoes for a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. A side salad, like Super Fruit Salad, can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stew. For a cozy finish, pair it with a glass of red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Irene'S Courtland Stew contains roughly 802 calories, with 18g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (315% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), and iron (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1934mg per serving (84% 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 chicken instead of a hen for this stew?
Yes, you can definitely use a whole chicken in place of the hen. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as chicken may cook faster. The flavor will still be delicious, and it will yield a similar rich broth.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this stew in a slow cooker, add all ingredients after boiling the hen, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish.
What can I add to make the stew spicier?
If you enjoy a kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper or add diced jalapeños or other hot peppers. Additionally, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the spice level without compromising the stew's overall flavor.
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).