Beef Stew
A hearty beef stew featuring tender beef cubes simmered with vegetables in a savory tomato-based broth. The combination of carrots, potatoes, and optional green pepper offers a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings, showcasing rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut beef cubes, onion, celery, carrots, potatoes, green pepper (if using), and sliced mushrooms (if using) into bite-sized pieces.
- Layer the meat and vegetables in a roaster or a casserole dish with a lid.
- Mix the remaining ingredients—tomato juice, tapioca, salt, and sugar—together.
- Pour the mixture over the layered meat and vegetables.
- Cover the dish with a lid.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 4 hours undisturbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sear the beef cubes in a hot pan before layering them in the dish. You can substitute the tomato juice with beef broth for a deeper taste. If you prefer a thicker stew, add more tapioca or use cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent. Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans or peas for variety, making it a versatile option within beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. A side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stew nicely. For a comforting twist, consider pairing it with a dish like Nacho Cheese Chowder for a unique dinner experience that’s sure to please.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the beef stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Stew contains roughly 1475 calories, with 23g protein, 210g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (173% of the Daily Value), potassium (96% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2152mg per serving (94% 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 types of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute beef with other meats such as pork or chicken. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. For instance, chicken will require less time to cook than beef, making it a quicker option for a hearty stew.
What if I don't have tapioca?
If you don’t have Minute tapioca, you can use cornstarch as an alternative. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken it to your liking.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deliciously tender stew without needing to watch the oven.
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).