Gene'S Beef Stew
A hearty beef stew with tender meat, potatoes, carrots, and celery, simmered in tomato juice with tapioca for thickening—perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the stew meat into the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Add the potatoes, carrots, onion, and celery on top of the meat.
- Sprinkle tapioca over the ingredients.
- Pour tomato juice on top, then add salt and sugar.
- Cover with foil and bake at 250°F for 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sear the stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the baking dish. You can substitute beef broth for the tomato juice for a different taste, or use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for added nutrition. Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra color and texture. Adjust the salt based on your preference, especially if using broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Gene's Beef Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad, like a Pickled Peach Salad, to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of sautéed green beans. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gene'S Beef Stew contains roughly 1508 calories, with 24g protein, 240g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (173% of the Daily Value), potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1981mg per serving (86% 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 substitute the stew meat with chuck roast or even pork shoulder for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time if using leaner cuts, as they may require less cooking to remain tender.
Is it necessary to cover the dish while baking?
Covering the dish with foil helps to keep the moisture in, ensuring that the meat becomes tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. If you prefer a thicker sauce, uncover for the last hour of cooking.
Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stew a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it before baking. This allows the flavors to develop even more. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.
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).