Bearcat Stew
A hearty, slow-baked beef stew with rich tomato and onion flavors, complemented by vegetables and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a Dutch oven.
- Cover and bake at 275°F (135°C) for 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew beef before adding it to the Dutch oven. You can substitute ground beef for the stew beef if you're short on time, although it will change the texture. Adding a splash of red wine can enhance the overall taste, making it a great companion for American recipes like Beef, Potato, Onion Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Bearcat Stew is hearty and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a green salad. You might also enjoy it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, which complements the flavors beautifully. This stew is perfect for cozy family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Bearcat Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave until heated through. If the stew thickens too much, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bearcat Stew contains roughly 920 calories, with 50g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (211% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (155% of the Daily Value), and protein (99% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% 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 make Bearcat Stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while offering a convenient, hands-off cooking option.
What can I use instead of tapioca?
If you don't have tapioca, you can substitute it with cornstarch or flour as a thickening agent. Mix either with a bit of cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the stew during the last hour of cooking to avoid lumps.
Is it possible to freeze Bearcat Stew?
Absolutely! You can freeze Bearcat Stew for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat 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).