Chris' Tomato Beef Stew
Chris' Tomato Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish packed with tender beef, sweet carrots, potatoes, green beans, and a rich tomato-based broth. Ideal for a family dinner or cozy weekend meal, it offers savory flavors with hints of thyme and Worcestershire sauce, satisfying all who enjoy a classic, nourishing stew.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the beef in a large pot, then add minced garlic and sauté.
- Add beef consomme, tomato sauce, pepper, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and enough water to cover the ingredients.
- Simmer until the beef is tender.
- Peel and cut the carrots and potatoes, then add them to the stew along with drained green beans.
- Cook until the vegetables are tender. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider searing the beef in batches to achieve a nice crust. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a good substitute. For a slightly thicker stew, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as green peas or corn.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside Miniature Reuben Sandwiches or over mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chris' Tomato Beef Stew contains roughly 716 calories, with 44g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), and iron (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% 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 cubed beef with other meats like lamb or pork. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different meats may require adjustments for tenderness.
What can I use if I don't have beef consomme?
If beef consomme is unavailable, you can use beef broth or stock as a substitute. For deeper flavor, consider adding a bit of tomato paste or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef and vegetables are tender.
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).