Idelle'S Beef Stew
Hearty beef stew with tender meat, savory spices, and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners and rich in bold flavors that satisfy every palate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the beef slowly in bacon fat on all sides in a large pan.
- Place sliced onions on top of the browned meat.
- Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in boiling water and pour over the meat and onions.
- Add salt, lemon juice, sugar, pepper, paprika, allspice, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf.
- Cover and simmer the mixture for 3 hours until the beef is tender.
- Discard the bay leaf and garlic cloves.
- Add the sliced water chestnuts, carrots, potatoes, and onions to the stew.
- Cook the vegetables in the stew until tender, or add canned vegetables and heat thoroughly.
- Thicken the gravy by blending 1/4 cup of flour with 1/2 cup cold water and stir into the stew.
- Stir until the gravy is evenly blended and serve hot over biscuits.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using chuck roast instead of sirloin, as it becomes more tender during long cooking. If you're out of beef bouillon, you can substitute with beef stock for added depth. Adding a splash of red wine can elevate the dish further. Remember to brown the meat well to enhance the stew's flavor. If you prefer a thicker gravy, adjust the flour mixture according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef stew over fluffy biscuits for a comforting meal. It pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For a complete dinner, consider offering a light dessert afterward, such as a fruit crisp. This stew is also perfect for a cozy family gathering, making it a great choice for a 'Quick Dinner Idea.'
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore consistency. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Idelle'S Beef Stew contains roughly 428 calories, with 10g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 558mg per serving (24% 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 different vegetables in the stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stew with seasonal vegetables like peas, green beans, or sweet potatoes. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as some veggies may cook faster than others.
How do I make the stew spicier?
For added heat, consider incorporating a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the stew while it simmers. You can also add diced jalapeños for a fresh kick. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After browning the meat, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become incredibly 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).