Beef Stew With Limas

Prep: 15 min Cook: 90 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Beef Stew With Limas offers hearty comfort with tender beef chunks, savory tomatoes, and flavorful cinnamon, complemented by creamy limas. Perfect for a satisfying family meal, this stew combines rich flavors and a comforting texture that appeals to meat lovers and those seeking a warm, wholesome dish.

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Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup butter or margarine
  • 1 large onion, minced
  • 2 lb. beef chuck, cut in 2-inch pieces
  • 1 (10 oz.) can tomatoes
  • 1 whole cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 (10 oz.) package frozen Fordhook limas

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a hot Dutch oven.
  2. Saute the minced onion until golden.
  3. Add the beef chuck pieces and brown lightly.
  4. Add the canned tomatoes, cinnamon stick, salt, and pepper.
  5. Simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
  6. Skim off the fat from the stew.
  7. Refrigerate the stew, covered, before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce when browning the beef. If you can't find Fordhook limas, substitute with frozen baby lima beans or even green peas for a different texture. Make sure to brown the beef well for depth in flavor. If you're short on time, using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce cooking time while still achieving tender meat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty beef stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pairs nicely to balance the richness of the stew. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This dish also pairs beautifully with Corn Pone Pie, creating a comforting American dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Cool the stew completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store 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 if it seems too thick. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Beef Stew With Limas contains roughly 218 calories, with 11g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (135% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1989mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).

218 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.8g 22% DV
Total Fat 9.5g 12% DV
Carbs 22.7g 8% DV
Fiber 4.8g 17% DV
Sugar 10.1g 20% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1989.1mg 86% DV
Potassium 708mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 30.9mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 189mcg 21% DV
Vitamin C 121.8mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 47.7mg 4% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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, while beef chuck is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness when cooked slowly, you can use other cuts like brisket or round. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the cut's tenderness.

Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors often improve after a day in the fridge. Just allow it to cool completely before storing. Reheat gently on the stove when you're ready to serve.

What can I serve with this stew?

This beef stew is excellent on its own, but you can enhance your meal with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. For a delightful twist, try pairing it with Sweet And Juicy Cheesesteak for a fun family dinner.

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).

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