Hearty Beef Stew
Hearty beef stew combines tender cubes of beef with sweet carrots, savory tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish offers rich flavors and comforting warmth, making it an ideal choice for hearty, satisfying meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim all fat from the stew beef and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Put all ingredients into a crock-pot and mix well.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew beef in a pan before adding it to the crock-pot. If you don’t have quick cooking tapioca, cornstarch can be used as a thickener instead. Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms to enhance the dish. For a touch of warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hearty beef stew with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side salad can add freshness, while a glass of red wine pairs beautifully with this dish. For a different flavor experience, consider serving it alongside *Seven Layer Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain moisture. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Beef Stew contains roughly 675 calories, with 20g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (145% of the Daily Value), and iron (114% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1621mg per serving (70% 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 stew beef with chuck roast or even chicken thighs for a lighter version. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the type of meat used.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew turns out too thick, simply add a bit of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it heat through before serving.
Can I make this stew in a regular pot instead of a crock-pot?
Absolutely! If using a regular pot, brown the meat first, then add the vegetables and liquids. Simmer on low heat, covered, for about 2-3 hours until the meat is 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).