Five Hour Beef Stew
A hearty, slow-cooked beef stew featuring tender meat, potatoes, carrots, and celery in a savory tomato-based broth. Perfect for family dinners or cold days, this flavorful dish offers comforting goodness with simple ingredients and minimal effort, simmered to perfection over five hours.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put beef stew meat and vegetables in a roaster or Dutch oven. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle the tapioca over the ingredients.
- Stir to combine.
- Add the cream of tomato soup and water.
- Cover and bake at 275°F for 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the beef stew meat before adding it to the pot. You can substitute other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a different taste. If you prefer a thicker stew, increase the tapioca slightly. Using a quality cream of tomato soup is essential for the best flavor. This recipe is perfect for a busy day, as it requires minimal prep time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. A side salad or steamed green beans pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the stew. For a comforting twist, try serving it alongside a slice of cornbread. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portioned containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Five Hour Beef Stew contains roughly 1081 calories, with 18g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (255% of the Daily Value), potassium (97% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1696mg per serving (74% 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 different cuts of beef for this stew?
Yes, while beef stew meat works best for its tenderness, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure to cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. The key is to choose cuts that benefit from slow cooking to become tender and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this stew in a slow cooker, simply combine all the ingredients in the pot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Adjust the tapioca accordingly if you prefer a thicker stew. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you're busy with other tasks.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking times; add quicker-cooking vegetables during the last hour of baking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
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).