Beef Stew With Potato Dumplings
A hearty beef stew with tender meat, sweet carrots, and savory potato dumplings, perfect for comforting family dinners and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, salt, and pepper; dredge the beef cubes in the mixture.
- Cook the beef and sliced onions in bacon drippings until the onions are tender and the beef is browned.
- Stir in beef broth, water, vinegar, and carrots. Bring to a boil.
- Cover and simmer the stew for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the stew before simmering. If you prefer, you can substitute the lean beef with chuck roast for a more marbled meat. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can enhance the overall taste. Remember to not overcrowd the pan when browning the beef to ensure a nice sear.
Serving Suggestions
This beef stew pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier experience, serve it alongside potato dumplings to soak up the rich broth. A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully. Explore more beef recipes to find delicious options that fit any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. The stew can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Stew With Potato Dumplings contains roughly 596 calories, with 20g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (283% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value), and potassium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2016mg per serving (88% 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 other vegetables in this stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, green beans, or even parsnips for additional flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they retain their texture.
How can I thicken the stew if it's too watery?
If your stew is too watery, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stirring it into the stew. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes into the broth.
What's the best way to ensure the beef is tender?
To ensure the beef is tender, it's crucial to simmer the stew slowly. Give it enough time, usually around 1 1/2 hours, for the collagen in the meat to break down. If using a tougher cut, consider cooking it longer or using a pressure cooker for quicker results.
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).