Beef Stew By Sylvia
Savory beef stew is a classic comfort dish, brimming with tender meat and hearty vegetables. The rich flavors of slow-cooked beef meld beautifully with the sweetness of carrots and the earthiness of potatoes, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop and mix the meat and vegetables.
- Mix salt, sugar, and tapioca and sprinkle over the mixture.
- Add V-8 juice.
- Cover and bake at 275° for 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sear the stew meat in a hot pan before mixing with the vegetables. You can substitute tapioca with cornstarch if needed, but make sure to adjust the quantity. If you prefer a thicker stew, increase the tapioca slightly. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can enhance the flavor profile, complementing the heartiness of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs excellently with crusty bread or a side salad to balance the hearty flavors. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside Shoe Peg Corn Casserole, which adds a sweet contrast to the savory stew.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the stew thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Stew By Sylvia contains roughly 1037 calories, with 15g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1551mg per serving (67% 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 frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this beef stew recipe. Just be aware that frozen vegetables may release more moisture during cooking, potentially making the stew thinner. If using frozen, add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking.
What type of meat is best for stew?
Chuck roast is the ideal cut for beef stew, as it becomes tender and flavorful after long cooking. However, you can also use other cuts like brisket or round if chuck is not available. Just make sure to cut the meat into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this beef stew in a slow cooker, follow the same preparation steps, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a deliciously tender stew.
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).