Hot 'N Spicy Stew
A hearty, spicy stew featuring tender venison, vegetables, and bold flavors, perfect for a comforting meal that appeals to those who enjoy bold, savory dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except cornstarch and water in slow cooking pot.
- Stir well to blend.
- Cover and cook on low (setting number 3) for 7 to 9 hours or on high (setting number 5) for 3 to 4 hours until meat and vegetables are tender.
- Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the stew and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added heat, consider using spicy salsa or adding chopped jalapeños to the mix. If venison is unavailable, beef is a great substitute, but you could also try lamb for a different flavor profile. To enhance the richness, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of red wine. Adjust the spices to your preference, and feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice, like in Fried Canada Goose And Arkansas Rice, to soak up all the flavorful juices. A side salad or steamed green beans complements the hearty dish well, making for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions, which can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot 'N Spicy Stew contains roughly 2117 calories, with 40g protein, 292g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (133% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2456mg per serving (107% 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 venison with beef, lamb, or even chicken. Each option will bring a unique flavor to the stew, but be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for chicken, which typically cooks faster.
Is there a way to make this stew less spicy?
Absolutely! You can use mild salsa instead of spicy, and reduce or omit the chili powder. Adding a bit of sugar can also help balance the heat. If you want to tone down the spices further, serve with a side of sour cream or yogurt.
What can I do if my stew is too thick?
If your stew is too thick, simply add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to incorporate the liquid. Remember, it's easier to adjust thickness gradually, so add a little at a time.
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).