California Beef Stew
A hearty, flavorful beef stew with vegetables and creamy soups, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for robust appetites and cold weather.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put raw beef stew meat in a baking dish.
- Cut up potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, green pepper, and cabbage.
- Add the chopped vegetables to the meat in the baking dish.
- Pour undiluted cream of chicken and mushroom soups over the meat and vegetables.
- Cover lightly and bake for 3 hours at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the baking dish. You can substitute any root vegetables for the potatoes and carrots, such as parsnips or turnips, depending on your preference. If you have leftover veggies, chop them up and include them as well.
Serving Suggestions
This beef stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for added heartiness. For a delightful touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Beef Stew contains roughly 378 calories, with 9g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (123% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (119% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 864mg per serving (38% 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 substitute beef with lamb or pork, though cooking times may vary. Ensure the meat is suitable for slow cooking to maintain tenderness. Chicken could also work, but it will require less cooking time.
What can I do if I don't have cream of chicken or mushroom soup?
If you don't have these soups, you can create a homemade version using a roux and broth. Combine equal parts butter and flour, cook until golden, then whisk in chicken or vegetable broth until thickened. Add some cream for richness.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt for a slow cooker, set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Simply add all ingredients as you would for baking, and let the slow cooker do the work for a deliciously tender stew.
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).