Gunk
A hearty, comforting stew with ground meat, potatoes, and sweet corn, perfect for family dinners and cold evenings, offering rich flavors and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef or sausage and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, chopped potatoes, water, parsley, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar to the pot.
- Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Add both cans of corn to the mixture.
- Bring to a boil and then add milk, stirring well before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and sausage. You can substitute chicken or turkey for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, replace the meat with lentils or chickpeas. Adding some diced bell peppers or carrots can enhance the dish's color and nutrition. Don't forget to adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Gunk with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal. A simple side salad can add freshness and balance to the dish. This recipe pairs beautifully with Easy Ground Meat Casserole for a comforting dinner spread. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley for a touch of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals, ensuring they are heated thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gunk contains roughly 1333 calories, with 36g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), and protein (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2293mg per serving (100% 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 frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute frozen corn for canned corn. Just add it to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure it heats through without becoming mushy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef or sausage with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the seasonings to complement the flavors of your chosen substitute.
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).