Grub Stew
A hearty pork and vegetable stew with tender chops, lima beans, and potatoes, packed with savory flavors and perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill a pot with water three-quarters full and add the pork chops. Cook until done.
- Remove the pork chops and let them cool.
- Set aside the cooked pork chops.
- In the same pot and using the same broth, add chopped onion, celery, green peppers, frozen lima beans, chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, hot sauce, garlic powder, bay leaf, and cubed potatoes.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and cook for about 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pork chops from the bone and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the chopped pork chops and any juices to the stew.
- Simmer for another 30 to 40 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the pork chops first before boiling them. You can substitute frozen peas or corn for the lima beans if desired. If you prefer more spice, add an extra dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. This stew can also be enhanced with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Grub Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside steamed cabbage (Country Style) or a light coleslaw. This hearty stew is perfect for family gatherings and comforting weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grub Stew contains roughly 596 calories, with 11g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (274% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and potassium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1461mg per serving (64% 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 other meats instead of pork chops?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs or beef stew meat for the pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require longer or shorter cooking times to become tender.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew ends up too thick, simply add a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat through. This will also help maintain the flavor without diluting it.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can brown the pork chops in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the meat and vegetables are tender.
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).