Carlucci Stew
A hearty, savory beef stew with carrots, potatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners and slow-cooker convenience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pare and slice the carrots.
- Cube the potatoes and sirloin tips.
- Place all the vegetables, beef, and tomato sauce in a Dutch oven or crock-pot.
- Add 2 cups of water to the crock-pot.
- Cook in the crock-pot on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
- Alternatively, bring the mixture to a boil in a Dutch oven, then cover and simmer for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours.
- During the last hour of cooking, add the barley and continue to cook until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the sirloin tips in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have barley, you can substitute with quinoa or rice. Adjust the seasoning to taste as the tomato sauce can vary in saltiness. Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with Southern Fried Cornbread for a comforting meal. Serve it with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad like Red And White Bean Salad for added texture and flavor. A dollop of sour cream on top can also enhance the dish's richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain consistency. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carlucci Stew contains roughly 1106 calories, with 23g protein, 203g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (170% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 48g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cut of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute sirloin tips with chuck roast or even stew meat for a more affordable option. Just remember that tougher cuts may require longer cooking times to become tender.
Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, swap the sirloin tips with firm tofu or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add lentils for protein and texture.
What can I serve with Carlucci Stew?
Carlucci Stew is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a light salad like Pear And Red-Potato Salad or a hearty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
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).