Dixie Beef Stew
A hearty beef stew with vibrant citrus and savory flavors, featuring olives, tomatoes, and herbs—perfect for comforting family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup grapefruit juice ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 pounds beef round, cut into 1-inch cubes ⓘ
- 1 bay leaf, crumbled ⓘ
- 1/2 cup sliced, pitted ripe olives ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped fresh tomato ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon dried leaf rosemary ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons salad oil ⓘ
- 1 large green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 large onion, sliced ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine grapefruit juice, salt, and minced garlic in a large bowl.
- Add beef cubes to the marinade and refrigerate overnight.
- Drain beef, reserving the marinade.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, sear the beef cubes before marinating; this enhances the stew's richness. If grapefruit juice is unavailable, orange juice can be a suitable substitute, although it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Consider adding vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added texture, similar to other beef recipes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley before serving can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dixie Beef Stew with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal. A fresh green salad can complement the richness of the stew, balancing the flavors nicely. For a comforting twist, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes, reminiscent of classic American recipes. Enjoy this hearty dish with a glass of red wine for an enhanced dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Dixie Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened. It can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dixie Beef Stew contains roughly 1406 calories, with 5g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value) and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck or brisket, which are also great options for stews due to their rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as necessary, as tougher cuts may require longer to become tender.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After marinating the beef, simply transfer all ingredients into a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an easy alternative to traditional stovetop preparation.
How can I thicken the stew if it's too runny?
If your stew is too thin, you can create a slurry with cornstarch and water, then stir it in and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans or vegetables in the stew to naturally thicken the mixture.
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).