Farris Five Hour Stew
A hearty, slow-cooked beef stew packed with vegetables and rich flavors, ideal for comforting family dinners or leisurely weekend meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a small roasting pan.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons tapioca over the ingredients.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon sugar over the ingredients.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour one can of tomato soup over the mixture and add one can of water.
- Cover the pan and cook in the oven for 5 hours at 250° to 300°. Uncover during the last half hour if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier stew, consider adding mushrooms or bell peppers. You can substitute beef with chicken or even a plant-based protein for a different flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and try using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth. If you prefer a thicker stew, add a little cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich stew with warm, crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the hearty flavors. For a comforting meal, it pairs beautifully with Grandma Dula'S Roast Beef, creating a satisfying dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stew gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Farris Five Hour Stew contains roughly 916 calories, with 16g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (115% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 834mg per serving (36% 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 frozen vegetables in this stew?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if you're short on time. Just add them directly to the roasting pan without thawing, as they will cook down nicely during the long cooking time. However, fresh vegetables will provide a better texture and flavor.
Is it possible to cook this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, similar to traditional American recipes. Just make sure to adjust the liquid if needed.
What can I do if my stew is too salty?
If your stew turns out too salty, try adding a peeled potato to absorb some of the saltiness. Cook it for the last 30 minutes and then remove it before serving. Alternatively, adding a bit of sugar or vinegar can help balance the flavors.
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).