Busy Day Stew
A hearty, savory stew with tender beef, mushroom flavors, and a sweet-tangy apricot and Russian dressing glaze, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix apricot preserves and Russian dressing until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Lipton onion soup mix and stir over a very low flame until well blended. Do not boil.
- Pour the sauce over the stew meat in a baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 325°F for 1.5 hours.
- Uncover and bake at 300°F for an additional 30 minutes.
- Baste often during the baking process.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute the red wine with a hearty beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar. If you prefer a sweeter touch, consider using peach preserves instead of apricot. To save time, use pre-cut stew meat. Make sure to keep the mixture on a low flame to prevent burning, especially when blending the sauces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Busy Day Stew over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. For a hearty meal, pair it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. This dish also complements well with a glass of the same red wine used in the recipe, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Busy Day Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Busy Day Stew contains roughly 248 calories, with 8g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (131% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 820mg per serving (36% 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 different type of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork as an alternative to beef stew meat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these meats may require less time to become tender.
Is there a way to make this stew healthier?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of apricot preserves for less sugar or use low-sodium soups. Adding vegetables like carrots and peas can also boost nutritional value while maintaining flavor.
Can I prepare this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare it in a slow cooker! Simply combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
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).