Homemade Beef Stew
Homemade Beef Stew is a comforting and hearty dish that features tender beef simmered with a medley of root vegetables. The rich tomato flavor adds depth, making it perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings. This stew is sure to warm your soul and satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put 8 cups of water and stew meat in a large pot.
- Boil for 30 minutes.
- Cut potatoes into wedges.
- Cut celery into small chunks.
- Slice onion.
- Scrape carrots and cut into chunks.
- Add all vegetables to beef and water.
- Add one tablespoon salt and boil for 30 minutes or more.
- Add tomato sauce and water.
- Turn on low burner and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Turn off and let set for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the pot. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. Feel free to substitute other root vegetables like turnips or parsnips for a unique twist. This recipe is a hearty option among traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this beef stew with crusty bread or over fluffy rice for a filling meal. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad can complement the dish nicely. For a comforting twist, pair it with Chili Cornbread Bake for a heartwarming dinner that brings everyone to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the beef stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Beef Stew contains roughly 1491 calories, with 32g protein, 311g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (290% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2138mg per serving (93% 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 types of meat in this stew?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can substitute with lamb or pork for different flavor profiles. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, since different meats may require varying amounts of time to become tender.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot. You could also serve the stew with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to customize their bowl to their spice preference.
What if I don't have tomato sauce?
If you find yourself without tomato sauce, canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can be excellent substitutes. You can also use a mix of tomato paste and water to achieve a similar consistency and flavor.
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).