Best Beef Stew
A hearty beef stew with tender meat, potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes, seasoned with herbs and spices. Perfect for comforting family dinners or cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, add stew meat, vegetables, and seasonings (pepper, salt, basil, allspice).
- Add the large can of whole tomatoes and tapioca over the vegetables.
- Bake the stew at 350°F for one hour.
- Then reduce the oven temperature to 300°F and continue baking for three hours.
- Cook for at least 3 1/2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat before adding it to the pot. If you don't have tapioca, cornstarch can be used as a thickening substitute. Feel free to experiment with vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added depth. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef stew with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of fluffy rice. A side salad or steamed green beans pairs well to balance the richness of the stew. For a comforting dessert, consider following up with a slice of Golden Layer Cake to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For freezing, let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Beef Stew contains roughly 668 calories, with 19g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (146% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2116mg per serving (92% 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 a slow cooker for this beef stew?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender.
What type of beef works best for stew?
Chuck roast is ideal for beef stew as it becomes tender and flavorful during the long cooking process. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, as they can become tough when cooked for extended periods.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Beef stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving.
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).