Italian Beef Stew
A hearty Italian beef stew featuring tender beef, tomatoes, potatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting meals and satisfying for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the beef in oil in a large saucepan.
- Add chopped onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic.
- Saute the mixture for a few minutes.
- Add the canned whole tomatoes (cut in the pan) and diced potatoes.
- Stir in dried parsley flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine when browning the beef. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a tablespoon of flour to the beef before browning. Feel free to substitute the beef with chicken or create a vegetarian version by using hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. To enhance the dish, serve with crusty bread or a side of Bruschetta Al Pomadoro.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Beef Stew pairs beautifully with a side of creamy polenta or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also consider offering a side of Pasta Fagioli (Vegetarian) for a delightful Italian-inspired spread. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Beef Stew contains roughly 1334 calories, with 19g protein, 167g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (50% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2163mg per serving (94% 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 slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and flavors meld beautifully.
What type of beef is best for stew?
Chuck roast is ideal for stew as it becomes tender and flavorful after long cooking times. You can also use round or brisket, but chuck is typically the most recommended for stews due to its marbling.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as some vegetables may cook faster than others.
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).