Football Lover'S Stew
A hearty, flavorful stew combining tender beef, smoky bacon, and rich tomato and orange notes, perfect for satisfying gatherings and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large kettle or heavy saucepot, sauté bacon until golden brown; remove and set aside.
- Combine flour, salt, and pepper; dredge the beef cubes in the flour mixture.
- Brown the meat in bacon fat over high heat, a few pieces at a time.
- Remove and reserve the browned meat.
- Add olive oil to the kettle; heat.
- Sauté chopped onions and garlic until golden.
- Add orange juice, red wine, tomato puree, beef bouillon cubes, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and bay leaves.
- Return the bacon and meat to the kettle.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add chunks of turnips and cook until tender if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you don't have beef bouillon cubes, you can substitute with beef broth. To thicken the stew, whisk in an additional tablespoon of flour mixed with water towards the end of cooking. This dish can also be customized with different vegetables, similar to Unstuffed Stuffed Peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Football Lover's Stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor. This hearty dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a filling meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a light salad or some roasted vegetables, making it a great option year-round.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture and prevent splattering.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Football Lover'S Stew contains roughly 1839 calories, with 55g protein, 323g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (390% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (332% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (302% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2637mg per serving (115% 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?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can use pork, chicken, or even venison for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking times according to the type of meat you choose to ensure it's tender and flavorful.
What can I add to make this stew spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking. This can enhance the flavor profile and make it more exciting, especially for those who enjoy a kick.
How can I make this stew vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and potatoes, and replace the bacon and beef bouillon with vegetable broth. You can also add lentils or beans for protein, creating a satisfying and delicious stew.
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).