Cider Stew
Cider Stew is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender chunks of beef simmered in apple cider with carrots, onions, and celery. The combination of savory and sweet flavors makes it perfect for cool weather gatherings or family dinners, offering a rich, flavorful experience with a hint of fruitiness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the chuck pot roast and cut into 1-inch cubes by slicing into 1-inch slices, then halving each slice lengthwise, and cutting into 1-inch pieces.
- In a bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Dredge the beef cubes in the seasoned flour.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- Add sliced onions and sliced celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in apple juice or cider, water, and vinegar.
- Add quartered carrots to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the beef cubes in the apple cider overnight before cooking. If you don’t have apple juice or cider, white grape juice can work as a substitute. For a thicker stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. Additionally, try incorporating potatoes for a heartier dish that pairs beautifully with Beef Vegetable Stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cider stew with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs well with a simple side salad, like Tossed Fruit Salad, to balance the richness of the stew. A glass of chilled apple cider can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cider Stew contains roughly 1057 calories, with 21g protein, 168g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (236% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), and iron (78% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2156mg per serving (94% 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 cut of meat for this stew?
Yes, while chuck pot roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can use brisket or round roast as alternatives. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as different cuts may require more or less time to become tender.
Is this stew suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This cider stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the stew?
Consider adding garlic, bay leaves, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can also elevate the dish. Experiment with different vegetables, such as parsnips or turnips, for additional flavor and texture.
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).