Five Hour Stew
A hearty, slow-cooked beef stew featuring tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and green peppers, all infused with savory tomato sauce and beef broth. Perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings, this dish develops rich flavors over hours of gentle oven cooking, requiring minimal preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a casserole dish.
- Place the bay leaf on top.
- Cover and cook in the oven at 300°F.
- Do not peek during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stewing beef before adding it to the casserole dish. You can substitute tapioca with cornstarch if needed, or skip it for a thinner stew. If you're short on time, use frozen diced vegetables instead of fresh. This stew can also be made in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. For an alternative, try the Cabbage Roll Casserole for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew is perfect served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with the Cabbage Roll Casserole for a comforting dinner spread. A dollop of sour cream on top can add a nice creaminess to each bowl.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the stew on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of beef broth or water if it has thickened. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Five Hour Stew contains roughly 1175 calories, with 22g protein, 239g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (179% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (179% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1772mg per serving (77% 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 stew?
Yes, you can use pork or chicken instead of beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may require less time to become tender. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and add vegetable broth instead.
How can I thicken the stew if it turns out too watery?
If your stew is too watery, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew while simmering. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes until thickened. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes in the stew to help thicken it naturally.
Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Just reheat it on the stove or in the oven before serving. This makes it a convenient option for busy nights or entertaining guests.
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).