Dieters' Stew
A hearty, low-calorie stew combining lean beef, tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and flavorful onion soup, perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal for dieters or those seeking comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the lean ground beef in a skillet and drain off all excess fat.
- Mix the cooked meat with the stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, frozen mixed vegetables, Lipton onion soup mix, and water in a crock-pot.
- Simmer the mixture until the vegetables and flavors are well combined and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano in place of or alongside the Lipton onion soup mix. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also add a variety of beans to increase protein and fiber. Adjust the water based on desired thickness; more for a soup-like consistency, less for a stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Dieters' Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cheese if desired. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, try serving it alongside the Quickie Hamburger Casserole for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water if it appears too thick. This stew also freezes well; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dieters' Stew contains roughly 161 calories, with 8g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% 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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the stew; however, you may need to adjust cooking time to ensure they are tender. Keep in mind that fresh vegetables may have different cooking times compared to frozen ones.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the stew. You can also use spicy tomato sauce or add some black pepper for a milder kick. Taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This stew is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and the flavors improve over time. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners. Just reheat and enjoy!
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).