Aunt Ola'S Oven Baked Stew
A hearty oven-baked stew with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the stew beef with salt.
- Arrange the meat and vegetables in a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Pour the tomatoes and beef consomme over the meat mixture.
- Sprinkle the quick cooking tapioca on top.
- Cover the casserole with foil.
- Bake at 250°F for 4 hours or all day, until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the stew beef in a bit of red wine or Worcestershire sauce before cooking. You can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned ones, but make sure to adjust the liquid content. If you're short on time, use frozen chopped vegetables instead of fresh. This recipe also works well with other beef recipes, such as Homestyle Meatballs, for variations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. A side salad or steamed green vegetables complements the hearty dish. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside sides like mashed potatoes or rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ola'S Oven Baked Stew contains roughly 1359 calories, with 40g protein, 255g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (152% of the Daily Value), protein (79% of the Daily Value), and iron (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2980mg 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 cut of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure they are well-marbled, as this will help keep the stew flavorful and tender during the long cooking process.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt the recipe for a slow cooker, follow the same steps for seasoning and layering ingredients, then cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. This will yield tender meat and flavorful vegetables.
Can I freeze the stew for later?
Yes, you can freeze the stew after it has cooled completely. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
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).