Crock-Pot Sweet And Sour Beef And Vegetables
Crock-Pot Sweet And Sour Beef and Vegetables is a comforting dish that combines tender stew beef with a tangy sauce, sweetened with sugar and molasses. It's loaded with colorful vegetables like carrots, onion, and green pepper, making it a perfect family meal for those chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown meat in hot oil in skillet.
- Transfer to slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients, mixing well.
- Cook 6 to 7 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the stew beef in the tomato sauce overnight. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking. Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or opting for a sugar substitute if desired. For a twist, add pineapple chunks for a fruity note, similar to American recipes featuring sweet and sour flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour beef over a bed of rice or noodles for a hearty meal. Steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad pairs well, adding a nice crunch and balancing the dish's flavors. This recipe also goes wonderfully with cornbread or rolls for a comforting dinner, making it a satisfying option for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beef and vegetables in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a microwave-safe container, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Sweet And Sour Beef And Vegetables contains roughly 684 calories, with 13g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (183% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and iron (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 850mg per serving (37% 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 recipe?
Yes, you can substitute stew beef with pork or chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than beef. For instance, chicken thighs may only need 4-5 hours on low. Be sure to cut the meat into similar sized pieces for even cooking.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. You could also use a spicy chili powder instead of regular. Just remember to start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference, so it doesn't overpower the sweet and sour balance.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the stew beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or tofu, which absorb the flavors well. Use vegetable broth instead of the meat juices for added depth. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as vegetables may not need as long to cook as meat.
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).